Positron emission tomography and single photon emission CT molecular imaging in schizophrenia

This article reviews seminal findings obtained with positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) molecular imaging that have contributed to our understanding of the pathophysiology and treatment of schizophrenia. Among the most robust findings are from imaging studies of presynaptic dopaminergic function in the striatum. Consistent results support increased activity of dopamine neurons associated with positive symptoms and good therapeutic response. PET and SPECT techniques have predominantly focused on unraveling underlying disease biology, but the role of imaging in drug discovery and patient management is expected to increase.