Personalized molecular visualization and radiotheranostics of adrenal tumors

Abstract

Th e diagnosis of adrenal tumors has improved signifi cantly over the past decades thanks to laboratory research and anatomical imaging techniques. In some cases, these methods make it possible to distinguish a benign tumor from a malignant one, and in combination with invasive methods, the accuracy of such diagnostics varies from 80 to 100%. However, in cases of pheochromocytoma, this invasive intervention can induce a hypertensive crisis. Hybrid molecular imaging techniques such as single-photon emission tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET), coupled with CT or MRI, have come to the rescue. Molecular imaging techniques are non-invasive and safe for patients, and the information obtained allows you to more accurately determine the optimal treatment tactics. Purpose: in our review, we will try to cover all modern and promising methods of molecular imaging of adrenal formations and radionuclide therapy, which constitute a new trend in the development of nuclear medicine in the world - radiotheranostics (radionuclide therapy based on radionuclide diagnostics). Methods: We conducted a systematic review of the literature obtained from the open databases Scopus and Pubmed describing the latest methods of radiotherapy of adrenal tumors. We then classifi ed the findings based on mechanism of action, point of application, and relevance of radioactive tracers, comparing their effectiveness and availability.

Keywords

• theranostics
• molecular visualization
• adrenal tumors
• pheochromocytoma
• spect
• review