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The future of infection imaging.
1Nuclear Medicine, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK. j.buscombe@medsch.ucl.ac.uk
Summary
New imaging agents for infection show promise, with radiolabeled antibodies, peptides, and antimicrobials being explored. Further trials are needed to determine their clinical utility and market success in nuclear medicine.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Medicine
- Infectious Disease Imaging
Background:
- Significant advancements in novel imaging agents for infection detection have occurred over the last decade.
- Traditional antibody-based agents have seen clinical adoption, but production challenges persist.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolving landscape of infection imaging agents.
- To discuss the potential and challenges of new radiolabeled tracers.
Main Methods:
- Review of antibody-based radiopharmaceuticals.
- Exploration of cytokine and antimicrobial radiolabeled peptides.
- Investigation into radiolabeled antimicrobials, particularly antifungals.
Main Results:
- Three antibody-based agents are in clinical use.
- Peptide-based tracers show potential for higher specificity than labeled leukocytes.
- Radiolabeled antifungals may benefit immunocompromised patients.
Conclusions:
- The development of infection imaging agents is dynamic and promising.
- Clinical progression and market viability of new tracers remain uncertain.
- Future success depends on overcoming technical and commercial hurdles.