Abstract
This continuing educational article introduces the radiochemistry of PET tracers that exhibit a covalently bound radiolabel with the nuclides 11C, 13N, and 18F. The overall process of PET tracer production is explained, starting from the production of the radionuclide in a cyclotron; followed by the automatization process of the radiosynthesis, including the necessary steps for the respective synthesis; and finalized with the requirements for quality control.
Footnotes
Published online Jul. 24, 2018.
Learning Objectives: On successful completion of this activity, participants should be able to (1) identify the most important PET tracers currently applied in clinical routine and research; (2) illustrate the overall process of radiochemical production, from cyclotron production to quality control; and (3) classify the generally applied PET tracers according to their mode of action.
Financial Disclosure: The authors of this article have indicated no relevant relationships that could be perceived as a real or apparent conflict of interest.
CME Credit: SNMMI is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to sponsor continuing education for physicians. SNMMI designates each JNM continuing education article for a maximum of 2.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits. Physicians should claim only credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. For CE credit, SAM, and other credit types, participants can access this activity through the SNMMI website (http://www.snmmilearningcenter.org) through September 2021.
- © 2018 by the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging.