18F-FDG

18F-FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose) is a special radioactive sugar molecule used in medical imaging to detect areas of increased metabolic activity, often related to cancer. When injected into the body, it mimics glucose, which cells use for energy. Cancer cells tend to absorb more glucose due to their higher energy needs, so they take up more 18F-FDG. A special camera then tracks the radioactive signals, allowing doctors to identify and locate abnormal or rapidly growing cells, aiding in diagnosis, staging, and monitoring treatment effectiveness.