PET and SPECT imaging in veterinary medicine

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Radiology and Imaging
• Molecular Imaging
• Nuclear Medicine

Background:

• Veterinarians increasingly have access to advanced molecular imaging facilities like positron emission tomography (PET) and PET/CT.
• Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is more prevalent in Europe and shows utility in veterinary oncology and orthopedic disease evaluation.
• SPECT brain imaging aids in understanding animal behavioral disorders with parallels to human psychiatric conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of the potential clinical and research applications of PET and SPECT in veterinary medicine.
• To discuss the use of PET radiopharmaceuticals in managing veterinary diseases.
• To highlight the growing importance of molecular imaging in companion animal health and disease modeling.

Main Methods:

• Review of current and emerging applications of PET and SPECT in veterinary practice and research.
• Discussion of commercially available and investigational PET radiopharmaceuticals, particularly (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose.
• Reference to published normal biodistribution studies in companion animals (cats, dogs, birds) for diagnostic interpretation.

Main Results:

• The primary PET tracer used to date is (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose, predominantly for oncologic imaging in animals.
• Normal biodistribution data is available for key companion species, supporting lesion detection.
• Ongoing research explores other (18)F-labeled tracers and utilizes companion animal models for human disease research.

Conclusions:

• PET and SPECT imaging are emerging technologies in clinical veterinary medicine with significant potential.
• Increasing accessibility and interest are fostering greater expertise among veterinarians globally.
• Collaboration between physicians and veterinarians is crucial for advancing molecular imaging in veterinary medicine.