Update on PET imaging biomarkers in the diagnosis of neuropsychiatric disorders. Issue 4 (August 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hellwig, Sabine; Domschke, Katharina
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in neurology. Volume 32:Issue 4(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-08
• Subjects: cerebral glucose metabolism -- dopaminergic imaging -- neuroinflammation -- positron emission tomography -- serotonergic imaging; Neurology -- Periodicals; Nervous system -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 616.805
• DOI: 10.1097/WCO.0000000000000705
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1473-6551

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose of review: To give an update on recent imaging studies probing positron emission tomography (PET) as a tool for improving biomarker-guided diagnosis of neuropsychiatric disorders. Recent findings: Several studies confirmed the value of imaging of regional neuronal activity and imaging of dopaminergic, serotonergic, and other neuroreceptor function in the diagnostic process of neuropsychiatric disorders, particularly schizophrenia, depression/bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Additionally, imaging brain microglial activation using translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO) radiotracer allows for unique in-vivo insights into pathophysiological neuroinflammatory changes underlying schizophrenia, affective disorders, and OCD. Summary: The role of PET imaging in the biomarker-guided diagnostic process of neuropsychiatric disorders has been increasingly acknowledged in recent years. Future prospective studies are needed to define the value of PET imaging for diagnosis, treatment decisions, and prognosis in neuropsychiatric disorders.