What is PET/CT?

In one continuous full-body scan (usually about 30 minutes), PET captures images of miniscule changes in the body’s metabolism caused by the growth of abnormal cells, while CT images simultaneously allow physicians to pinpoint the exact location, size, and shape of the diseased tissue or tumor.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Computerized Tomography (CT) are both standard imaging tools that allow physicians to determine the possibility of cancer within the body before making treatment recommendations.

Alone, each imaging test has particular benefits and limitations, but when the results of PET and CT scans are “fused” together, the combined image provides complete information on cancer location and metabolism.

Benefits PET/CT?

There are tremendous benefits of having a combined PET/CT scan:

• Earlier diagnosis
• Accurate staging and localization
• Precise treatment and monitoring
• Assess effectiveness of chemotherapy