Molecular Imaging and it's Impact on Cancer

Abstract

Huge growth in medical technologies has occurred recently and has had a huge impact on the treatment of cancer.Molecular imaging is at a turning point today with the advancement in targeted imaging agents. These agents allow cancer surgeons to not only see the tumors location, but also visualize small nodules, and see activity of these nodules and processes that are advancing research. Tumors in individuals have traditionally been seen through CT scans, MRI and ultrasound. NMR has recently given much information that furthers traditional techniques showing the role that the body’s metabolism plays in cancer. Molecular imaging is a huge part in the turning point of cancer research because it enables doctors to see the molecular and physiological aspects of tumors in the individual. These advancements are predicted to have a large impact on cancer treatment and possible cancer cures in the future. In the future, research hopes that these new imaging methods will enable cancer to be detect when it is treatable. Scientists also hopes for new improved treatments and drugs for cancers through these advancements.