Overview of 99mTc-anti-TNF-α scintigraphy: Diagnostic applications

Abstract

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) has a role in the pathogenesis of several inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis. As TNF-α plays a role in the pathogenesis of different inflammatory diseases, anti-TNF-α agents (monoclonal antibodies [mAbs]) such as infliximab, adalimumab, and certolizumab have been developed and investigated for the treatment of these conditions. In recent years, these mAbs also have been used for diagnosis, monitoring, follow-up of disease activity, and therapy decision-making for inflammatory diseases, especially rheumatoid arthritis, after labeling with 99mTc. However, 99mTc-anti-TNF-α imaging might have severe adverse effects and is expensive. In contrast, scintigraphic imaging before therapy with radiolabeled mAbs may be a cost-effective solution for therapy decisions. © 2014 Elboga et al.