Total-Body PET in Theranostics: Reshaping Treatment Planning and Follow-Up
Andrea Di Giorgio1, Martina Di Franco2, Riccardo Mei3
1Department of Nuclear Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
PET Clinics
|April 8, 2026
Summary
Total-body PET/CT offers enhanced molecular imaging sensitivity and speed. This advanced technology improves diagnostic accuracy and patient monitoring in precision medicine.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Imaging
- Radiopharmaceuticals
- Diagnostic Performance
Background:
- Total-body PET/CT (TB PET) represents a significant advancement in molecular imaging technology.
- TB PET scanners offer superior photon collection efficiency, leading to higher sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratios compared to conventional systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the revolutionary impact of TB PET/CT in molecular imaging.
- To discuss the benefits of TB PET/CT for precision medicine applications, including patient selection and treatment response assessment.
Main Methods:
- Leveraging long-axial field-of-view scanners for enhanced data acquisition.
- Utilizing the high sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio of TB PET/CT.
Main Results:
- Shorter acquisition times and reduced radiopharmaceutical doses are achievable.
- Enhanced diagnostic performance and accuracy in lesion detection.
- Facilitation of dual-tracer studies and analysis of both short- and long-lived radiopharmaceuticals.
Conclusions:
- TB PET/CT significantly improves diagnostic capabilities in molecular imaging.
- The technology is poised to transform patient selection and treatment monitoring in precision medicine.
- Future applications include advanced tracer kinetic analysis and frequent follow-up imaging.
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