Nuclear Cardiac Imaging: Principles and Applications

Nuclear cardiac imaging refers to cardiac radiological diagnostic techniques performed with the aid of radiopharmaceuticals, which are perfused into the myocardium as markers. These imaging studies provide a wide range of information about the heart, including the contractility of the heart, the amount of blood supply to the heart and whether parts of the heart muscle are alive or dead. This is essential information for cardiologists, and nuclear imaging has become an increasingly important part of the cardiologist's armamentarium.

Iskandrian's text has become a leading book in the field and the fourth edition will continue the tradition. The text is completely updated to reflect the many advances in the field, and, as a new feature, each chapter concludes with a Q&A session on important and difficult clinical issues.

Doody Review Services

Reviewer:Oussama Nachar, MD, PhD(Ochsner Clinic Foundation)
Description:This overview of the diagnostic aspects of nuclear cardiology describes state-of-the-art modalities as well as the latest innovations and changes in the field. The book is well organized and comprehensive with abundant illustrations.
Purpose:The authors address all the important aspects of nuclear cardiology with an emphasis on the new technical and clinical developments. At the same time, they demonstrate the current role of nuclear cardiology especially with the addition of new modalities such as SPECT MUGA, PET perfusion imaging, and molecular imaging.
Audience:Because this book covers the entirety of a mature field, it is an excellent reference for nuclear medicine physicians, cardiologists, and radiologists who interpret nuclear cardiology studies in their daily practice. It is also valuable for residents in training.
Features:The authors clearly and comprehensively cover the most important modalities in the field from MPI studies to SPECT/CT and Rb-82 PET perfusion scans. Chapters covering the radiation sciences, such as radiation physics and radiation safety, as well as the chapter on left ventricular remodeling imaging are noteworthy.
Assessment:Nuclear medicine books that cover the technical and clinical aspects of nuclear cardiology are not abundant. The format and the quality of the information presented this book's panel of talented authors render a difficult subject easier to understand. This excellent book will be a great addition to any nuclear medicine physician's library and a precious asset to all the residents and fellows in nuclear medicine, cardiology, and radiology fields who are called to care for patients with cardiovascular disease.