A PET-CT scan is a type of imaging test that combines a positron emission tomography (PET) scan and a computed tomography (CT) scan. During a PET scan, a small amount of radioactive material, called a radiotracer, is injected into the body. The radiotracer travels through the body and is absorbed by organs and tissues. As the radiotracer breaks down, it emits positrons, which are detected by the PET scanner. The PET scanner produces detailed images of metabolic activity in the organs and tissues.
A CT scan, on the other hand, uses x-rays to produce detailed pictures of the organs and tissues inside the body. During a CT scan, the patient lies on a table that slides into a doughnut-shaped machine. The machine takes x-rays of the body from different angles, and a computer combines the images to create a detailed 3D picture of the body.
In a PET-CT scan, the PET and CT images are combined to provide more information about the body than either test could provide alone. PET-CT scans can help doctors diagnose cancer, monitor cancer treatment, and check for new cancer growth after treatment has ended. They can also help doctors find the right place for a biopsy. PET-CT scans are generally safe and do not require an overnight hospital stay.
