Molecular imaging based on x-ray fluorescent high-Z tracers.

We propose a novel x-ray fluorescence imaging setup for the in vivo detection of high-Z tracer distributions. The main novel aspect is the use of an analyzer-based, energy-resolved detection method together with a radial, scatter reducing collimator. The aim of this work is to show the feasibility of this method by measuring the Bragg reflected K-fluorescence signal of an iodine solution sample in a proof of principle experiment and to estimate the potential of the complete imaging setup using a Monte Carlo simulation, including a quantification of the minimal detectable tracer concentration for in vivo imaging.