Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) exercise, as visualized by Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans, reveals metabolic exercise throughout the physique. FDG, a glucose analog, is absorbed by cells that require glucose for power. Areas of elevated FDG uptake typically point out heightened metabolic demand. For instance, cancerous tumors usually exhibit considerably elevated FDG uptake as a result of their speedy development and power consumption. A PET scan identifies and shows the spatial distribution and depth of this uptake.
The evaluation of metabolic exercise is essential in varied medical contexts. It permits for the detection, staging, and monitoring of illnesses, significantly most cancers. Observing the metabolic response to therapies, reminiscent of chemotherapy or radiation, supplies invaluable insights into therapy efficacy and informs medical decision-making. Traditionally, the capability to visualise metabolic processes in vivo represented a big development over relying solely on anatomical imaging.
