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Current Cardiovascular Imaging Reports
Published in: Current Cardiovascular Imaging Reports 5/2019

Open Access 01-05-2019 | Computed Tomography | Cardiac Nuclear Imaging (A Cuocolo and M Petretta, Section Editors)

Radionuclide Imaging of Atherothrombotic Diseases

Author: Mitchel R. Stacy

Published in: Current Cardiovascular Imaging Reports | Issue 5/2019

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

A variety of approaches and molecular targets have emerged in recent years for radionuclide-based imaging of atherosclerosis and vulnerable plaque using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET), with numerous methods focused on characterizing the mechanisms underlying plaque progression and rupture. This review highlights the ongoing developments in both the pre-clinical and clinical environment for radionuclide imaging of atherosclerosis and atherothrombosis.

Recent Findings

Numerous physiological processes responsible for the evolution of high-risk atherosclerotic plaque, such as inflammation, thrombosis, angiogenesis, and microcalcification, have been shown to be feasible targets for SPECT and PET imaging. For each physiological process, specific molecular markers have been identified that allow for sensitive non-invasive detection and characterization of atherosclerotic plaque.

Summary

The capabilities of SPECT and PET imaging continue to evolve for physiological evaluation of atherosclerosis. This review summarizes the latest developments related to radionuclide imaging of atherothrombotic diseases.
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Metadata
Title
Radionuclide Imaging of Atherothrombotic Diseases
Author
Mitchel R. Stacy
Publication date
01-05-2019
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current Cardiovascular Imaging Reports / Issue 5/2019
Print ISSN: 1941-9066
Electronic ISSN: 1941-9074
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12410-019-9491-7

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