Nuclear imaging is entering a period of notable change. Positron emission tomography (PET) scans are gaining traction in oncology and other high-value applications, driven by innovations in tracer development, theranostics, and advanced imaging technologies. According to leading data and analytics company 鈥檚 market analysis, the global PET imaging agent market is valued at $2.1bn in 2025, compared to $4.7bn for single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Between 2025 and 2035, PET agents are projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 4.6% in market value and 4.7% in procedure volume, a rate 5.5 times higher than the projected growth of SPECT agents.
PET growth is primarily driven by tracer innovation, with recent successes in prostate-specific membrane antigen-based scans and clinical fibroblast activation protein inhibitors demonstrating how PET can directly influence treatment decisions. Advanced PET imaging in Alzheimer鈥檚 disease also holds promise for improving early detection and monitoring of disease progression. The rise of theranostics, which integrate diagnostic PET tracers with therapeutic radioligands, strengthens the PET value proposition by linking imaging with treatment. Emerging tools such as AI-based image quantification and standardised reporting are also expected to improve scan consistency and reduce variability in interpretation, further increasing PET鈥檚 role in advanced clinical care. These capabilities are encouraging broader adoption of PET across both diagnosis and therapy planning.
Comparatively, SPECT remains a key modality in nuclear medicine, supported by established supply chains, low equipment costs, and a longstanding use in cardiology and general nuclear medicine. Technetium-based SPECT scans account for the majority of nuclear medicine procedures worldwide, estimated at 76% in 2025 and projected to hold strong at 70% in 2035. In many regions, particularly those with limited infrastructure, SPECT will remain the practical and reliable choice.
Looking ahead, the nuclear imaging market pipeline reflects this shift towards PET usage and development. GlobalData鈥檚 tracks 129 PET agents in active development compared to 14 for SPECT. Among these, one SPECT agent and seven PET agents are in the approval process and are likely to launch in 2025-26. PET adoption is accelerating, particularly in high-income markets, and is poised to capture a growing share of the global nuclear imaging market, especially in high-value applications. Meanwhile, SPECT will continue to provide accessible and reliable coverage in routine clinical practice. Companies that focus on diversifying tracers, securing supply chains, and aligning strategies with regional infrastructure needs are likely to be best positioned to capitalise on this ongoing transition. Challenges, including radioisotope supply fluctuations, training demands, and variations in global access may influence adoption across specific markets.
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By GlobalData
