What is PET Scan and its role in diagnosing cancer?

Lab Provider
3 min readAug 25, 2023

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What is PET scan and its importance in detecting tumors and cancer cells.
PET Scan and Radiology

A Positron Emission Tomography scan or PET scan is an imaging test that creates 3D pictures of your organs and tissues functioning in real time. It uses a radioactive tracer injected into your vein along with a special scanner to light up areas in your body that may show disease. PET scans are often used to diagnose and evaluate cancer, heart problems, and brain disorders.

How does PET differ from CT and MRI?

While MRI scan use magnets and CT scans use x-rays, a PET scan tracks radioactive tracers to see how your organs work. This gives it the unique ability to catch diseases in their very early stages by detecting cellular level changes. A PET scan combined with a CT scan (called a PET-CT) creates extremely detailed 3D images that allow for more accurate diagnosis.

Differece between CT Scan, PET scan and MRI
Image Source: Mayo Foundation

What does a PET scan check for?

Your doctor may order one to check for cancer, heart disease, or brain abnormalities like tumors or Alzheimer’s disease. If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, your oncologist may use PET scans before, during, and after treatment to see if the cancer has spread, evaluate treatment effectiveness, or check for recurrence.

When would a PET scan be needed?

PET scans are often used to diagnose and evaluate cancer, heart problems, and brain disorders. They can help detect diseases in early stages, evaluate cancer treatment, and check for recurrence.

How does a PET scan work?

When it’s time for your test, you’ll get an IV injection of a tracer containing a tiny, safe amount of radioactive material. You’ll wait an hour while it flows through your bloodstream and gets absorbed by tissues. Then you’ll lie inside the PET scanner (which looks like a giant donut) for about 30 minutes as it takes images.

PET scan Working
Image Source Google

How to prepare for a PET scan?

Make sure to follow your doctor’s preparation instructions carefully. This may include fasting for 6 hours beforehand, avoiding caffeine, and leaving jewelry at home.

What to expect during the scan?

You’ll get an IV injection of a tracer containing a tiny, safe amount of radioactive material. You’ll wait an hour while it flows through your bloodstream and gets absorbed by tissues. Then you’ll lie still inside the PET scanner for about 30 minutes as it takes images.

Risks and side effects?

The good news is that PET scans are very low risk thanks to the tiny amount of radiation. The only possible side effects are mild allergic reactions or issues for pregnant/breastfeeding women.

PET Scan Services in Lucknow

Looking for an affordable PET scan services in Lucknow? Lab Provider connects you to the city’s top diagnostic centers for low-cost PET scans without compromising on quality.

As an aggregator platform for diagnostic services, Lab Provider gives you access to Lucknow’s most advanced PET scan technology and radiology expertise at prices lower than hospital rates.

Whether you need a PET scan for cancer screening, cardiac imaging, or neurological evaluation, Lab Provider will match you with a 5-star accredited diagnostic center that fits your budget without sacrificing personalized care.

Schedule an appointment online or over the phone for a PET scan with minimal wait times. Lab Provider’s network of the best radiology labs ensures you get accurate results and caring service.

Don’t pay hospital premiums for PET scan services in Lucknow. Lab Provider partners with the city’s trusted diagnostic centers to make quality imaging affordable for all. Contact us today to learn more and request pricing!

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