Positron emission tomography scan

Positron Emission Tomography Scan

Positron Emission Tomography Scan (PET scan) is a type of imaging test that helps reveal how your tissues and organs are functioning. A PET scan uses a radioactive drug (tracer) to show this activity. This scan can sometimes detect disease before it shows up on other imaging tests.

Procedure

A PET scan is an outpatient procedure. This means you can go about your day after the test is done. PET scans are often used to evaluate several types of cancer, heart disease, and brain disorders.

Uses

PET scans are used to analyze the biochemical changes occurring in an organ or tissue. This can help doctors diagnose a health condition, measure its severity, or monitor its treatment.

Risks

The risks of the test are minimal compared to the benefits. The amount of radiation in the tracer is small. This means the risk of radiation exposure is low. However, for pregnant women and nursing mothers, the test may not be recommended because of risks to the baby.

Preparation

Before a PET scan, your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare. This may include dietary restrictions or instructions on drinking water.

Results

After the scan, a radiologist will interpret your test results and share them with your doctor. Your doctor will go over these results with you and explain what they mean.

See Also

• Computed Tomography Scan
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• Nuclear Medicine

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