Functional oncoimaging techniques with potential clinical applications

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Medical Imaging
• Radiology

Background:

• Structural imaging is standard for detecting, staging, and monitoring malignant tumors based on physical characteristics.
• Limitations exist as structural imaging does not reveal tumor physiology, molecular features, or biological processes.
• This hinders comprehensive tumor characterization and monitoring in clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review functional imaging methods for non-invasive evaluation of tumor physiology and molecular processes.
• To highlight the need for advanced imaging techniques beyond structural assessment.
• To improve tumor evaluation and reduce cancer-related morbidity and mortality.

Main Methods:

• Review of various functional imaging modalities.
• Focus on non-invasive techniques for in vivo assessment.
• Discussion of methods visualizing physiological and biochemical processes.

Main Results:

• Structural imaging provides limited information on tumor biology.
• Functional imaging modalities offer insights into tumor physiology and molecular aspects.
• A variety of functional imaging techniques are available for review.

Conclusions:

• Functional imaging is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of tumors.
• These modalities enhance the characterization and monitoring of malignant neoplasms.
• Improved tumor evaluation through functional imaging can lead to better patient outcomes.