What is a PET Scan?

Computed tomography (CT) and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are amongst the most common medical imaging techniques used in hospitals and clinics for diagnosing and monitoring a variety of medical conditions. However, Positron emission tomography (PET) scanning is a relatively newer imaging technology that has been increasingly used to create detailed images of the body. A PET scan is a two-dimensional (2D) imaging technique used to identify abnormal chemical and metabolic activity in the body. It is a non-invasive medical imaging procedure used to diagnose and monitor a variety of conditions, including cancer, heart defects and neurological disorders.

How Does a PET Scan Work?

A PET scan combines two imaging technologies: computed tomography (CT) and nuclear medicine imaging. The CT component creates an image of the body’s anatomy, while the nuclear medicine component creates an image of the body’s metabolic activity. During the scan, a special radioactive chemical called a radiotracer is injected into the patient’s vein. This radiotracer travels through the bloodstream and accumulates in the area of the body being examined. A PET scanner then detects the radiation emitted from the radiotracer and creates a series of images based on the radioactive material’s distribution throughout the body.

What Can a PET Scan Reveal?

By combining the anatomical information of a CT scan with the metabolic activity of a nuclear medicine scan, PET scans are able to provide a more comprehensive look at the body and organs than either imaging method can do on its own. PET scans can detect a variety of abnormal conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, neurological disorders, and metabolic disorders. They can also be used to monitor how well a patient is responding to a particular treatment plan such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Conclusion

A PET scan is a powerful tool for diagnosing and monitoring a variety of medical conditions. By combining the anatomical information of a CT scan with the metabolic information of a nuclear medicine scan, a PET scan can create a detailed image of the body and help physicians accurately detect and monitor a range of medical conditions. If you have any further questions about PET scans or if you would like to learn more about them, be sure to speak to your doctor or radiologist.