Which type of imaging techniques involves the use of a radio tracer or contrast agent?

The correct choice involves functional-based imaging techniques, which utilize a radio tracer or contrast agent to enhance the visualization of physiological processes within the body. This approach allows for the assessment of how organs and tissues are functioning, rather than just their structural anatomy.

In functional imaging, radio tracers are often used in techniques like Positron Emission Tomography (PET) or Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT). These techniques involve injecting or ingesting a small amount of radioactive material that emits gamma rays during radioactive decay. This emitted radiation is detected by specialized cameras to create detailed images that reflect biological functions, such as metabolism or blood flow.

Such imaging is invaluable in various medical applications, including oncology, cardiology, and neurology, as it aids in diagnosing conditions where understanding the function of tissues is crucial.