Metallic nanoparticles for CT-guided imaging of tumors and their therapeutic applications

Nanoparticles (NPs) serve as the contrasting agent in the computed tomography (CT) guided interventional devices and processes. The high contrast imaging of the patient is critical for accurate and early diagnosis, and thereafter the elimination of the abnormality. A high contrast CT scan helps in the diagnosis of blood clots, broken bones, carcinogenic tumors, infections, internal injuries and bleeding, and cardiovascular diseases. Thereafter it helps in the determination of the precise location of surgery, biopsy, and monitoring conditions after surgery. Besides iodine, today radiologists are interested in high atomic number NPs like gold, tantalum, bismuth, silver, etc. The advancement in NP-based CT-guided imaging for a specific target is highly desirable for effective intervention processes like drainage by catheter, needle insertion, etc. In computed tomography (CT) guided interventional devices and procedures, NPs are known to act as contrasting agents. High-contrast imaging of the patient is essential for an accurate and prompt diagnosis, followed by the treatment of the diseased site. Blood clots, shattered bones, cancerous tumors, infections, internal injuries and bleeding, and cardiovascular disorders can be easily diagnosed with the use of a CT scan with high contrast. In addition, it aids in determining the precise surgical site, conducting biopsies, and monitoring postoperative conditions. Iodine-based contrast agents have been the conventional choice, but lately, radiologists are also interested in NPs with a high atomic number, such as gold, tantalum, bismuth, silver, etc. This review talks about recent research on metallic NPs and the usage of their conjugates for CT imaging of tumors, special attention has been given to gold NPs.