Higuchi T, Chen X, Scheifele M, Fischer M, Clauss S, Klimek K, Werner RA.
Mov Disord. 2025 Oct; 40(10): 2149-2157. doi: 10.1002/mds.30278. Epub 2025 Jun 29. PMID: 40583364.
Review article
Abstract
The rising global burden of coronary artery disease (CAD) underscores the need for advanced diagnostic tools. While single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) has been the cornerstone for myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI), it is increasingly being supplemented by positron emission tomography (PET) due to superior spatial resolution, sensitivity, and the ability to quantify myocardial blood flow. However, current PET tracers, including Rubidium-82, 13N-Ammonia, and 15O-Water, face limitations due to their short half-lives and logistical challenges. The advent of 18F labeled PET tracers, such as Flurpiridaz F18, promises a new era in cardiac imaging by offering a longer half-life (110 minutes), compatibility with exercise stress testing, and high diagnostic accuracy. This review explores the current landscape of MPI, evaluates the clinical performance of novel 18F tracers, and discusses their transformative potential in expanding access to PET imaging and improving CAD diagnostics.
