Applications of the Rare Earth Elements in Cancer Imaging and Therapy

There remains a great need for improved imaging technology in oncology both for screening, localization, and to follow the progress of treatments. With the exception of gadolinium, which has a history of use in MRI, other rare earth elements have been largely under-used for in vivo imaging. The unique properties of this class of elements are described and the possibilities for their application in cancer imaging illustrated. Furthermore, recent discoveries show how rare earth elements can provide novel therapeutics in the fight against cancer.