[Molecular imaging: future uses in arthritides]

Molecular imaging is an upcoming field in radiology as a result of great advances in imaging technology, genetics, and biochemistry in the recent past. Early-stage imaging of molecular pathological changes in cells opens the gates to new methods in medical treatment of diseases that otherwise would only be detected in advanced stages. Methods of imaging biochemical pathways with molecular agents are currently an issue of intensive research. This article reviews current modalities of molecular imaging in arthritis that should offer future perspective on early disease detection, diagnosis, and monitoring of treatment efficiency and how they can pave the way to optimized therapy.