In vivo imaging for cancer evaluation presents both the cellular and molecular pathways of the disease, within their physiological environments. In vivo imaging is the cumulative work of a variety of disciplines, including cell and molecular biology, chemistry, pharmacology, and immunology. Common modalities of in vivo imaging include CT scans, MRIs, optical scans, PET scans, SPECT scans, and ultrasound.

CT scans are generated by a series of X-rays. Different x-ray views of tissues are taken from many different angles, producing cross-sectional images, which doctors then evaluate. CT scans aid in the diagnosis of muscle and bone disorders, detect internal injuries and internal bleeding, and find tumors, infections, and blood clots. CT scans may also guide surgeries, biopsies, and radiation therapy, as well as monitoring and detecting both cancer and heart disease.

The MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is another diagnostic tool. A MRI machine uses a magnetic field, and radio waves, to create detailed images of tissues, and organs, within the body. The MRI is the most frequently used imaging test for the brain and spinal cord, and also detects abnormalities in the heart, bones and joints, breasts, and internal organs.

Optical scans create pictures using light. In an optical scan, photons from an external light source are directed at the body. The photons are then either scattered or absorbed, and identified with a photon detector. Using fluorescent dyes, technicians easily distinguish antibodies, proteins, genes, and small molecules, detecting fluorescence even deep within tissue. A probe, which enhances image contrast, may be added to a medium before light is applied, and will stay in the body for an extended period of time.

PET scans reveal cellular-level metabolic changes. When a positron emission tomography scan is performed, small doses of a radioactive tracer are either injected, inhaled, or swallowed. Tracers then travel to the tissues and organs which are being studied, and the machine detects the tracer, converting the energy into a three-dimensional picture. Radioactive tracers tend to accumulate in cells with high levels of chemical activity. These cells show up as bright spots on the scan, and are usually the areas in which disease will be found.

A SPECT scan also uses radioactive tracers and a camera to make 3D pictures. Single-photon emission computerized tomography shows how different disorders affect the brain, heart, and bones. In particular, SPECT scans can track the progression of bone cancers, and can show how different organs, including the heart and brain, are working.

Ultrasound creates images with high-frequency sound waves. Ultrasound evaluates abnormalities in some organs, like the prostate, and may guide biopsy and tumor treatment. Ultrasound also has applications in the study of the heart and blood flow, as well as evaluating the condition of a fetus.

Molecular images have many applications, including imaging in vivo for evaluation of cancer. Cancers are among the top ten causes of death throughout the world, and proper diagnosis, and treatment, will either cure the disease, or extend quality of life. Following cancers at all stages enables doctors to introduce the right courses of therapy, as well as to make treatment as non-invasive as possible.

Author Bio: The top in vivo imaging company provides modalities designed for preclinical research in cancer metastasis. These cutting-edge technologies include the biomarker, high-resolution imaging, photoacoustic digital imaging, and the rat heart.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
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