Positron Emission Tomography Myocardial Perfusion Imaging for Diagnosis and Risk Stratification in Obese Patients

Obesity is reaching pandemic proportions, and its prevalence is projected to increase over the next decade. Because of the strong association of obesity and cardiovascular disease, the demand for diagnostic and prognostic tests is also expected to increase. Although there are multiple imaging modalities available for the physician, appropriate selection of the imaging modality in obese patients will facilitate accurate diagnosis, patient management, and minimize unnecessary resource utilization and costs. To help select the most appropriate imaging modality in obese patients, it is vital that the physician understands the limitations of each imaging modality. Positron emission tomography (PET) cameras and radiotracers have unique characteristics that offer advantages over other modalities. Qualitative assessment of relative myocardial perfusion and quantification of myocardial blood flow by PET is feasible. Therefore, PET may be an ideal imaging modality in obese patients.