The Transformative Impact of Imaging

Welcome to our monthly literature update on laboratory biomarker development in major diseases. In our fourth edition, we highlight innovative advancements in the field of imaging.

At the vanguard of medical innovation, imaging and biomarkers are revolutionising our approach to healthcare, unlocking personalised treatment pathways that seemed like too far-fetched not long ago. This literature update of cutting-edge science aims to distil the essence of recent scientific literature on the topic, highlighting the transformative impact these tools have on the management and treatment of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and a spectrum of non-communicable and communicable diseases. With the support of genomics and biomarker research, the healthcare paradigm is shifting from a uniform approach to highly bespoke, individualised care. The synergy of visual and molecular data from combined biomarker and imaging technologies offers an unprecedented precision in diagnosis and treatment. The integration of artificial intelligence and predictive imaging into this landscape is not just enhancing care but also reshaping the very fabric of medical practice.
 

Recent key publications

1) A Review on the Use of Imaging Biomarkers in Oncology Clinical Trials: Quality Assurance Strategies for Technical Validation. Tomography 2023; 9:1876-1902. Chauvie S, Mazzoni LN, O'Doherty J.

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Explore the intricacies of Imaging Biomarkers (IBs), tailored for the discerning scientific community. The authors delve into the quantitative nuances that transcend traditional visual assessments, emphasising the paramount importance of precision and reliability across the imaging spectrum. This manuscript, a collaborative effort by the EFOMP's imaging subgroup, serves as an essential guide for experts navigating the complexities of quality assurance in clinical trials.

2) Preventing new-onset heart failure: Intervening at stage A.
Am J Prev Cardiol 2023; 16:100609. Upadhya B, Hegde S, Tannu M et al.

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Heart failure (HF) represents an escalating crisis in public health with far-reaching consequences both domestically and internationally. This article explores the often-overlooked Stage A of HF; a critical window where emerging imaging and biomarker diagnostic tools can help to initiate a multi-faceted preventative approach.

3) Recent Advances in the Development of Non-Invasive Imaging Probes for Cancer Immunotherapy.
Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023: e202310694. Kazim M, Yoo E.

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Breakthroughs in tumour immunology are reshaping our fight against cancer, employing the body's own defences in ways previously unimagined. This article delves into the cutting-edge developments of non-invasive imaging probes offering a potential possibility for monitoring the effectiveness of immunotherapy. It is a critical read for experts seeking to understand the latest tools that could predict and enhance the success of immunotherapy, paving the way for personalised and more effective cancer treatments.

4) Prediction of placenta accreta spectrum in patients with placenta previa using a clinical, US and MRI combined model: A retrospective study with external validation.
Eur J Radiol 2023; 168:111116. Maurea S, Verde F, Romeo V et al.

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Discover the frontier of prenatal diagnostics with this cutting-edge study, combining both clinical risk factors and advanced imaging techniques to predict placental accreta spectrum in patients with placenta previa. The authors provide a careful analysis of a multi-institutional retrospective study, introducing a novel nomogram that incorporates maternal history and the latest in ultrasound and MRI technology. This validated predictive model claims remarkable diagnostic accuracy, opening new avenues for early and precise intervention in prenatal care.

5) Recovery of Acute Leukoencephalopathy Documented by Neuroimaging: A Case Report.
Neurol Clin Pract 2023; 13:e200203. Szymkowicz E, Neumann O, Sanz LRD et al.

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This study delves into a unique case of neurologic recovery from a coma and unresponsive wakefulness syndrome, challenging the traditional prognostic expectations associated with toxic leukoencephalopathy. Through extensive behavioural and multimodal neuroimaging assessments, this innovative approach offers a comprehensive view into the patient's remarkable progression over a 5-month period. The authors not only document a rare case of recovery despite severe brain lesions but also present the intrinsic potential of multimodal monitoring to enhance the accuracy of prognoses in similar neurological cases.

6 a) Interaction of impaired myocardial flow reserve and extent of myocardial ischemia assessed using (13)N-ammonia positron emission tomography imaging on adverse cardiovascular outcomes.
J Nucl Cardiol 2023; 30:2043-2053. Miura S, Okizaki A, Kumamaru H et al.

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b) Including myocardial flow reserve by PET in prediction models: Ready to fly?
J Nucl Cardiol 2023; 30:2054-2057. Petretta M, Panico M, Mainolfi CG, Cuocolo A.

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The transformative potential of myocardial flow reserve (MFR) in the realm of cardiac imaging and risk stratification by incorporating the latest findings from PET research. These pivotal studies interrogate the utility of MFR in predicting major adverse cardiac events, offering a new lens through which to view patient prognostics beyond traditional methods. The authors provide invaluable insights into the integration of PET-derived MFR into clinical practice, potentially revolutionising cardiac care.