What is a primary characteristic of 18F-FDG?

The primary characteristic of 18F-FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose) is its role as an indicator of glucose metabolism. 18F-FDG is a radiopharmaceutical that is widely used in positron emission tomography (PET) imaging to assess metabolic activity in tissues. By mimicking glucose, a primary energy source for cells, 18F-FDG is taken up by cells that are metabolically active, allowing for the visualization of areas with increased glucose uptake, which is often seen in cancerous tissues, inflammatory diseases, and various neurological disorders.

This characteristic is crucial for diagnostic purposes, particularly in oncology, where differentiating between benign and malignant tumors can significantly impact treatment decisions. Since cancer cells typically have higher rates of glucose metabolism than normal cells, the accumulation of 18F-FDG in these areas highlights potential malignancies effectively.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary use or characteristic of 18F-FDG. While it is not specifically used for bone imaging or as an indicator of oxygen consumption, its primary function as a marker of glucose metabolism underscores its importance in PET imaging.