How the next 50 years of positron emission tomography can transform our understanding of chronic pain.

Abstract

The first modern positron emission tomography (PET) scanner was introduced in 1975-the same year during which the journal PAIN was first published. Over the past 50 years, PET imaging has driven major discoveries in human biology, offering transformative insights into chronic pain. Yet, despite its remarkable versatility, PET remains a relatively underutilized tool in pain research. In this narrative, we explore the vast potential of this imaging technique, envisioning its evolution in the upcoming decades with advancements in scanner technology, novel radioligands, sophisticated data analysis methods, and expanded accessibility. We discuss how these innovations could revolutionize our understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of chronic pain.