ASNC offers guide on use of F-18 MPI radiotracers

The American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC) has released a new information statement with instructions for the safe and effective use of F-18 myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) radiopharmaceuticals.

The new guidance covers important radiation, clinical, protocol, and interpretation information and follows the recent launch of F-18 flurpiridaz (Flyrcado, GE HealthCare) -- the first PET MPI tracer approved in the U.S. in 30 years. The guide also sets the stage for additional F-18 perfusion tracers currently in development. There are significant differences between these radioisotopes and the tracers imagers have been using, such as rubidium-82 and nitrogen-13 ammonia, the ASNC said in a statement.

The information statement was published recently in the Journal of Nuclear Cardiology and is intended for the entire nuclear cardiology team, the ASNC noted.