18F-FDG is the most-commonly used tracer in PET imaging of atherosclerosis.18F-FDG uptake can be used to identify patients at the highest risk of clinical events and as a surrogate end point in clinical trials of antiatherosclerotic therapies. However, background myocardial uptake of 18F-FDG can make identifying high-risk coronary artery plaque difficult. Several novel PET tracers have, therefore, also been tested in atherosclerosis imaging. Here, Tarkin et al. review the role of state-of-the-art PET imaging of inflammation in atherosclerosis, including the rationale for this modality, and its current and future uses.
- Jason M. Tarkin
- Francis R. Joshi
- James H. F. Rudd