What is a common characteristic of tumor cells observable in PET imaging?

Tumor cells exhibit a characteristic of high cellular proliferation, which is often observable in PET imaging due to the increased metabolic activity associated with rapid cell growth and division. This heightened metabolic activity is typically reflected in the uptake of radiotracers, such as fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), which is commonly used in PET scans. The tumor cells preferentially take up this tracer because they have an increased need for glucose to support their accelerated proliferation, leading to a greater concentration of the tracer in tumor tissue compared to normal tissues.

This active metabolic behavior is a hallmark of malignancies and is critical for the identification and characterization of tumors during PET imaging. High cellular proliferation can also indicate the aggressiveness of the tumor, helping in staging and treatment planning. Thus, the reliance on metabolic markers, such as those highlighting increased proliferation, is vital for effective imaging and management of cancer through PET.