Major features of PET/CT versus MRI/MRA in patients with GCA.
| Feature | MRI/MRA | PET/CT |
|---|---|---|
| Detection of vascular inflammation | ++ | +++ |
| Detection of vascular structural changes | +++ | ++ |
| Spatial resolution | < 1 mm | > 4 mm |
| Visualization of temporal arteries | Yes | No |
| Location of large arteries visualized | Head, neck, thoracic regions | Whole body |
| Outcome treatment measure | No proven role | Possible role |
| Radiation exposure | No | Yes |
| Presence of renal failure | Contraindicated | No issue |
| Cost of procedure | + | +++ |
PET/CT: positron emission tomography/computed tomography; MRI: magnetic resonance imaging; MRA: magnetic resonance angiography; GCA: giant cell arteritis.