Molecular oncology imaging can improve outcomes, cut waste

Experts from the University of Pennsylvania advocated for the use of advanced molecular imaging in cancer care, citing its value when used from diagnosis to treatment in the Journal of the American Medical Association Oncology.

The PET Center at the Perelman School of Medicine has used PET imaging to detect the spread and size of tumors, determining which patients were most likely to benefit from targeted therapy. Other uses include limiting ineffective treatments by predicting patient response.

“In that case, molecular imaging could have directed treatment to patients highly likely to benefit and spared many other patients the toxic effects and costs of ineffective therapy,” Mankoff said.

Follow the link below to read the news release at PennMedicine.org.