Abstract

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Title:: Spectral computed tomography scanning principles and research advances in inorganic nanomaterial-based contrast agents

Author(s):: XIAO Xiaoyan; HUANG Wenpeng; LI Liming; GAO Jianbo; Department of Radiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China

Keywords:: Keywords: spectral computed tomography principle nanomaterial contrast agent review

Abstract:: Abstract: Computed tomography (CT) images represent the distribution difference in X-ray attenuation coefficients across various substances. Conventional CT tubes generate mixed-energy rays, and it is difficulty to accurately distinguish the composition and components of human tissues. In contrast, spectral CT can separate tissues with similar attenuation properties at any single energy level, enabling material decomposition. However, due to X-ray attenuation from adjacent organs and tissues, how to enhance the contrast of spectral CT remains challenging in its clinical practice. Contrast agents can change the X-ray attenuation degree of specific tissues for enhancing the imaging visualization. Currently, the clinically used contrast agents are either iodine-based or barium-based. Iodine exhibits a relatively low density and a low K-edge (approximately 33 keV), which imposes certain limitations on its application in spectral CT. Therefore, the inorganic nanomedicine-based contrast agents for spectral CT hold promising clinical prospects. Herein, the review introduces the basic principles, reconstruction techniques, and clinical diagnostic applications of spectral CT, summarizes the recent research advances in inorganic nanomaterial-based contrast agent for spectral CT, and finally discusses the challenges and future development directions of inorganic nanomedicines in spectral CT.