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Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a nuclear medicine imaging technique that produces a three-dimensional image or picture of functional processes in the body. The system detects pairs of gamma rays emitted indirectly by a positron-emitting radionuclide (tracer), which is introduced into the body on a biologically active molecule. Three-dimensional images of tracer concentration within the body are then constructed by computer analysis. In modern PET-CT scanners, this imaging technique is combined with a computed tomography (CT) scan to improve the accuracy of the patient's diagnosis.

Overview[edit | edit source]

The technique is used both in clinical and pre-clinical research to measure metabolic processes, blood flow, regional chemical composition, and absorption rates of drugs. PET is a valuable diagnostic tool in oncology, neurology, and cardiology, as it provides information about the function of tissues and organs, unlike magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and CT, which primarily show structure.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

During a PET scan, a substance that emits positrons, known as a radiotracer, is injected into the body. The most commonly used radiotracer is fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), a glucose analog. The patient is then placed in the PET scanner, and the emitted positrons collide with electrons in the body, producing gamma rays. These gamma rays are detected by the scanner and used to construct an image of the tracer distribution within the body.

Applications[edit | edit source]

PET is widely used for diagnosing certain conditions, monitoring treatment progress, and researching disease. In oncology, PET helps in detecting cancer, evaluating the spread of tumors, and monitoring the effectiveness of treatment. In neurology, it is used to diagnose neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and epilepsy. PET scans in cardiology are used to assess heart function and detect areas of low blood flow.

Advantages and Limitations[edit | edit source]

The main advantage of PET is its ability to measure the metabolic activity of cells, providing information that is often unattainable through other imaging techniques. However, PET scans are expensive, involve exposure to radiation, and the resolution is lower than that of MRI.

Future Directions[edit | edit source]

Research in PET imaging is focused on developing new radiotracers that can target specific diseases and improving the resolution and sensitivity of PET scanners. This includes the integration of PET with other imaging modalities, such as MRI, to provide more comprehensive diagnostic information.