Nuclear Hepatology

This book describes non-invasive imaging with quantification of function as the basis for diagnosis of various hepatobiliary diseases. In-vivo bile labeling with technetium-99m HIDA agents allows diagnosis of various hepatobiliary diseases associated with bile formation and flow. Since functional imaging possesses the inherent capacity to detect diseases early, long before morphological changes take place, there is potential for early treatment and full functional recovery. An etiologic diagnosis is often possible when quantitative functional changes are integrated with imaging findings. Unlike most current imaging textbooks, which describe changes in morphology as the basis for diagnosis, Nuclear Hepatology emphasizes the importance of integrating alterations in both morphology and quantitative physiology as the basis for diagnosis of liver and gallbladder diseases.