Fusing of immunoscintigraphy SPECT with CT or MRI for improved multimodality image interpretation

Correlation of PET or SPECT functional with CT or MRI anatomic transaxial images often enhances the information available on these studies. Careful registra­tion of images from two types of studies may be used to identify a structure containing to a PET or SPECT abnormality or to evaluate the functional or metabolic characteristics of an abnormal or normal structure. CTSPECT or PET image registration has been applied to brain imaging for metabolic and cerebral perfusion studies [1–3], more recently, to Ga-67 imaging of the chest [4], as well as to CT-SPECT correlation in cancer patients undergoing immunoscintigraphy [5–7]. We have applied an image registration technique to correlate CT or MRI of the abdomen and chest with SPECT images obtained after the administration of tumor-directed radiolabeled monoclonal antibodies. Correlation of PET or SPECT functional with CT or MRI anatomic transaxial images often enhances the information available on these studies. Careful registration of images from two types of studies may be used to identify a structure containing to a PET or SPECT abnormality or to evaluate the functional or metabolic characteristics of an attempt to improve our interpretation of these imaging studies.