An Update on the Role of Total-Body PET Imaging in the Evaluation of Atherosclerosis.

Fused PET/computed tomography has demonstrated success in the detection and quantification of atherosclerotic plaques. Recently, total-body PET imaging has demonstrated increased sensitivity and specificity in atherosclerosis. This article reviews the literature regarding this novel imaging technique. Moreover, evidence that has pointed toward 18F-sodium fluoride as the radiotracer of choice over 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose for evaluation of plaque burden is discussed. Finally, a global disease assessment is introduced as an adjunct tool for vascular PET imaging.