What type of image does a nuclear medicine scan usually provide?

Nuclear medicine scans are designed primarily to provide functional images that highlight the activity of tissues and organs within the body. This imaging technique utilizes radioactive tracers that emit gamma rays, allowing for the visualization of physiological processes in real-time. Unlike traditional imaging methods that focus on structural details, nuclear medicine emphasizes how well organs or tissues are functioning, which is crucial for diagnosing various conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders.

For instance, a PET scan (a type of nuclear medicine scan) can reveal areas of increased metabolic activity that might indicate the presence of disease, as cancerous cells typically exhibit higher metabolic rates compared to healthy tissue. This functional perspective is essential for evaluating organ performance, detecting abnormalities, and assessing the progression or response to treatment of various medical conditions.