TITLE:
Clinical Advances and Challenges in Photon Counting CT: A State of the Art Review
AUTHORS:
Ao Liu, Yixuan An, Zhi Kang Ng, Shuang Bai, Ruijun Wang
KEYWORDS:
Photon-Counting Computed Tomography, Diagnostic Imaging, CT Imaging, Clinical Application
JOURNAL NAME:
Advances in Computed Tomography,
Vol.14 No.1,
March
31,
2025
ABSTRACT: Photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT) is a novel imaging technology that uses photon-counting detectors (PCDs) to overcome several limitations of conventional energy-integrating CT systems. By counting individual photons and sorting them by energy, PCCT enables higher spatial resolution, better contrast-to-noise ratio, and multi-energy imaging within a single scan. These advantages allow for improved visualization of fine anatomical structures, enhanced tumor and vascular imaging, and significant radiation dose reduction, particularly valuable in pediatric and chronic disease contexts. Clinically, PCCT has shown promise in cardiovascular assessment, oncology imaging, neurodiagnostics, and interstitial lung disease detection. However, its widespread clinical adoption is limited by high equipment costs, increased computational demands, and the lack of standardized imaging protocols. Current research efforts are focused on advanced contrast agents, AI-based diagnostic tools, and broader deployment strategies. This article reviews the core technical principles, clinical benefits, challenges, and future directions of PCCT as it moves toward routine clinical use.