What is the primary purpose of nuclear medicine imaging?

The primary purpose of nuclear medicine imaging is to visualize physiological processes in the body. This branch of medicine uses radioactive substances, or radiopharmaceuticals, that emit gamma rays to create images of the internal structures and functions of the body. Unlike traditional imaging techniques that primarily focus on anatomical structures, nuclear medicine provides insights into the metabolic and physiological activities of tissues and organs, which can be crucial for diagnosing conditions at a functional level.

By highlighting physiological processes, nuclear medicine imaging can reveal how well certain organs are working, detect changes in organ function, and identify disease before anatomical changes occur. For example, a PET scan can show metabolic activity in the body, which helps in identifying areas of abnormal function, such as tumors or sites of infection.

Other options, while related to the field of medicine, do not encompass the primary focus of nuclear medicine imaging. It is not primarily meant for treatment, surgical procedures, or purely for blood flow measurement—although some aspects, such as assessing blood flow indirectly via functional imaging, can be part of a broader diagnostic process.