A PET-CT scan is a Positron Emission Tomography-Computerized Tomography scan. PET-CT imaging is a very advanced, non-invasive test that allows detection of tumors earlier, and sometimes more reliably, than other imaging methods.

PET-CT involves the injection of a small amount of radioactive sugar called FDG into your vein, followed by obtaining "pictures" of your body. Because tumor cells are typically very active and need sugar, the tumor cells will take up the radioactive sugar. This allows the PET-CT camera to take pictures and image the radioactivity. The PET and CT scan pictures are taken at the same and the combination of both provides better diagnostic accuracy.

This scan also helps to see if the cancer has spread. detect a subtle focus of abnormality that is related to increased consumption of glucose i.e in infection, differentiate viable  from dead tissue  and help physician in startegising a management plan.

Updated:: 14/08/2014 [hma] Updated:: 11/10/2013 [fathinulfikri]