How Does Metabolic Imaging Work in Cancer Diagnosis?
Cancer cells exhibit altered metabolism, such as increased glucose uptake and utilization, known as the Warburg effect. Metabolic imaging leverages these changes to detect cancer. For instance, in PET imaging, a radiolabeled glucose analog, fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), is administered to the patient. Cancer cells, which consume more glucose than normal cells, accumulate FDG, making them visible on PET scans. This allows for the early detection and accurate staging of cancers.
