Polymer Diagnostics: The Next Generation of Image Contrast Agents

Abstract

Diagnostic imaging techniques are an essential component of modern patient management. To maximise the yield of diagnostic information from these procedures, pharmaceutical grade contrast agents can be administered which will enhance regions of the image by virtue of their presence in the patient. This concept is well established in X-ray investigations using radiographically dense materials such as intravascular iodine and oral barium. The widespread use of other imaging modalities such as nuclear medicine, magnetic resonance and ultrasound has led to the development of a broad range of pharmaceutical agents which are administered to obtain diagnostic information, rather than to result in a pharmacological effect. Synthetic polymers and polypeptides in particular offer a range of materials with properties highly suited for use as image contrast media. This article outlines the basis of the main imaging techniques and the physical attributes of materials used to obtain image contrast. The use of synthetic polymeric formulations appears to offer great potential as a range of elegant “designer contrast agents.” Examples are given for each imaging modality.

Key Words:

• Image contrast agents
• In vivo contrast media
• Radiopharmaceuticals
• Synthetic polymers
• Polymeric contrast agents
• Polymer diagnostics