99mTc-FAPI SPECT/CT is a molecular imaging technique that identifies active fibroblast activity in the lungs, potentially predicting F-ILD progression earlier than standard PFTs or HRCT. It is currently being studied to create a predictive model for clinical risk stratification.
99mTc-FAPI SPECT/CT is an emerging diagnostic tool designed to predict disease progression in fibrosing interstitial lung disease by imaging active fibrosis.
The primary advantage is that 99mTc-FAPI SPECT/CT captures metabolic activity and fibroblast activation, which are the biological drivers of fibrosis. Traditional HRCT only shows the structural consequences of the disease, which often appear only after significant and irreversible lung damage has already occurred.
Disease progression is defined as a composite outcome over 12 months, including a decline in forced vital capacity (FVC) of ≥5%, a decline in DLCO of ≥10%, increased fibrosis on follow-up HRCT, acute exacerbation of the lung disease, or death.
No, it is currently in the research and clinical trial phase. While it shows significant promise for early risk identification, it is not yet part of the standard clinical guidelines for the routine management of fibrosing interstitial lung diseases outside of a research setting.
Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of fibrosing interstitial lung disease who are interested in accessing advanced diagnostic techniques or novel therapies should consult their pulmonologist about ongoing clinical trials. Participation helps advance medical evidence while providing access to state-of-the-art monitoring.