A molecular approach to breast imaging

Abstract

Molecular imaging is a multimodality discipline for noninvasively visualizing biologic processes at the subcellular level. Clinical applications of radionuclide-based molecular imaging for breast cancer continue to evolve. Whole-body imaging, with scintimammography and PET, and newer dedicated breast imaging systems are reviewed. The potential clinical indications and the challenges of implementing these emerging technologies are presented.

Keywords: PET; PET/CT; breast; breast cancer; breast-specific γ imaging; molecular imaging; oncology; positron-emission mammography; positron-emission tomography; radiopharmaceuticals.