PET / CT Scan
PET/CT combines the functional information from a POSITRON EMISSION TOMOGRAPHY (PET) exam with the anatomical information from a COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY (CT) exam into one single procedure. The PET exam pinpoints metabolic activity in cells while the CT scan provides an anatomical context of your body.
PET scan is a unique type of imaging test that helps doctors see how the organs and tissues inside your body are actually functioning. It detects changes in cellular function, such as how your cells are using nutrients like sugar and oxygen. In many cases, PET scan can provide the information to make an earlier and more accurate diagnosis than traditional methods.
CT scan uses a combination of x-rays and computers that allows the radiologist to see the anatomical features of the human body without an invasive procedure such as biopsies or surgeries.
The Benefit of PET in Oncology Clinical research data has proven that PET is superior to conventional imaging in the diagnosis, staging and surveillance (restaging) of various types of cancers. Moreover, the appropriate use of PET can lead to a significant change in the management of your patient’s care.
The Procedure
Combined PET / CT Imaging The Added Advantage
Combined PET/CT Imaging: The Added Advantage The PET/CT scanner combines two state of the art imaging modalities. By monitoring cellular glucose metabolism, PET provides very sensitive information regarding the function and malignant potential of lesions. CT meanwhile provides exquisitely detailed anatomical information about the location, size, and shape of various lesions but cannot differentiate benign lesions from malignant lesions with the same accuracy as PET.