PET/Computed Tomography Scans and PET/MR Imaging in the Diagnosis and Management of Musculoskeletal Diseases

Abstract

PET/computed tomography scans and PET/MR imaging have been applied in imaging tumors of the musculoskeletal system for their ability to provide information about metabolic activity. However, applications of these imaging modalities are now being extended to nononcologic musculoskeletal pathologies, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoporosis. This article aims to explore the alternative uses of these imaging modalities in oncologic and nononcologic musculoskeletal pathologies. It also discusses the various strengths and some weaknesses that are seen in particular situations.

Keywords: Arthritis; Magnetic resonance imaging; Multiple Myeloma; Musculoskeletal system; Osteoporosis; Osteosarcoma; Positron-emission tomography; Rheumatoid; Tomography; X-ray computed.