Positron Emission Tomography / Computer Tomography (PET/CT)

Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) is an innovative imaging procedure that combines the best of PET and CT imaging to create exceptionally detailed images. The highly sensitive PET scan detects the metabolic signal of actively growing cancer cells in the body and the CT scan provides a detailed picture of the internal anatomy that reveals the location, size and shape of abnormal cancerous growths.  Alone, each imaging test has particular benefits and limitations but when the results of PET and CT scans are "fused" together, the combined image provides complete information on cancer location and metabolism.  PET/CET is especially useful for diagnosing and treatment planning for cancer and has also been shown to be useful for brain disorders and heart conditions. 

Patients may need to fast for a period of time before the scan.  Patients are injected with a radioactive tracer about 45 minutes before the procedure.  Then the patient is positioned on a narrow table that glides into the PET/CT scanner for about 45 minutes. The process may take up to two hours, depending on the particular procedure. 

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PET/CT Body:

Whole body PET scan helps doctors identify and localize abnormalities, particularly cancer, faster than ever before. Not only can PET/CT identify the location of an abnormal mass, but it can help determine if the cells are cancerous or not and if enlarged lymph nodes are malignant or benign.  PET/CET is  commonly used for staging cancer when it is first diagnosed, and to monitor tumor response to chemotherapy and radiation therapy treatments. 

PET/CT Brain:

PET/CT is approved for the assessment of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.  The PET/CT scans maps patterns of metabolic activity in the brain; meaning, where the brain is using energy for functions.  Certain maps are associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.  The results of PET/CT can help determine which patients with Alzheimer’s disease may benefit from medication to help slow the progression of the disease.

PET/CT Neck

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