Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Imaging agent
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Imaging agents are chemicals designed to allow clinicians to determine whether a mass is benign or malignant and locate metastatic cancer sites in the body.
The development of an imaging agent involves synthesizing the agent to target a particular tumor or process, after which the imaging instruments can be adjusted to neutralize the target. Such agents are first examined via preclinical animal studies before engaging in early-phase human clinical studies.