Positron Emission Tomography (PET)

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a type of imaging modality used by medical professionals for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. PET uses a radioactive tracer, or radiotracer, which is injected into the patient’s bloodstream to trace the activity of certain organs and tissues. The energy emitted by the radiotracer is detected by a PET scanner, which then creates a three-dimensional image of the body’s metabolism. PET is a valuable diagnostic tool because it can measure chemical activity in organs and tissues, such as the lungs, brain, heart, and other areas of the body. It is especially useful in detecting cancer and other diseases, including Alzheimer’s and neurological disorders. PET can also help doctors make treatment decisions, as the information from a PET scan can be used to determine the extent of a patient’s illness and the best course of action. PET scans are non-invasive and relatively safe. During the procedure, the patient remains awake and alert. It typically takes up to an hour for the radiotracer to become active and the scan to be complete. Once the scan is finished, the patient is released from the facility and can go about his or her daily activities. PET scans are especially beneficial when used in combination with a CT scan or MRI. This combination of tests is often used to detect and diagnose cancer. When used together, the three imaging procedures help doctors visually identify the location and size of a tumor and determine the stage of cancer.