PET Scan and Why it is Necessary PET refers to Positron Emission Tomography. Doctors use it to visualize the structures inside the body. Most of PET is combined with CT scanners to provide quality imaging results. All You Need to Know About the PET Scan
It ‘s used to assess cancer, determine the stage of the disease, and site to treat. PET uses a low amount of radioactive energy during the therapy. The scans are used to measure cancer-related signs such as staging and restaging. Oncologists use PET-CT scans to assess the spread of lung cancer in an area of interest. The oncologist can request an additional scan to evaluate how the tumor responds to treatment.
Is it necessary to undergo PET scans?
The PET scan is unique; it does not focus on the anatomy but is targeted on imaging modality using radiotracers. The most commonly used scan, 2-(18F) FDG, is similar to glucose; therefore, it can detect cancer cells that have a high glucose level. Performing a scan with a PET enables the doctor to view the location of cancer and evaluate the activity of the tumor. PET scans allow earlier detection of tumors. They are also used to assess dementia and seizures.
The Benefits Outweigh the Risks Most people fear undergoing scans that involve radioactive geneses.
Understand that the requirement of the PET scan is usually necessary, and the physicians are already aware of the risks and benefits of scanning. The extent of the radiotracer inserted is low and harmless to the body. The radiotracer left after therapy is eliminated quickly from the body through liquid foods. These scans do not cause harm to the kidney. PET scans have been used in various parts of the world, and extensively in the U.S., Europe, Australia, parts of Asia, South Korea, and China.
Importance of a PET-CT scan PET scan is accurate and can detect cancer in its early stages, thus saving time, money, and lives. The PET-CT scanner is a crucial medical tool that should be fully utilized.