Pharmaceuticals (Apr 2022)

Radiopharmaceutical Labelling for Lung Ventilation/Perfusion PET/CT Imaging: A Review of Production and Optimization Processes for Clinical Use

  • Frédérique Blanc-Béguin,
  • Simon Hennebicq,
  • Philippe Robin,
  • Raphaël Tripier,
  • Pierre-Yves Salaün,
  • Pierre-Yves Le Roux

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/ph15050518
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 15, no. 5
p. 518

Abstract

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Lung ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET/CT) is a promising imaging modality for regional lung function assessment. The same carrier molecules as a conventional V/Q scan (i.e., carbon nanoparticles for ventilation and macro aggregated albumin particles for perfusion) are used, but they are labeled with gallium-68 (68Ga) instead of technetium-99m (99mTc). For both radiopharmaceuticals, various production processes have been proposed. This article discusses the challenges associated with the transition from 99mTc- to 68Ga-labelled radiopharmaceuticals. The various production and optimization processes for both radiopharmaceuticals are reviewed and discussed for optimal clinical use.

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