WHAT IS A PET SCAN FOR CANCER DIAGNOSIS?
lays a crucial role. Among the various imaging techniques available, the Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan stands out for its ability to provide detailed and functional information about the body’s cellular activity. But what exactly is a PET scan, and how is it used in cancer diagnosis? Let’s explore. Understanding PET Scans A PET scan is a type of nuclear medicine imaging that uses a small amount of radioactive material to visualize and measure changes in metabolic processes and other physiological activities. Unlike traditional imaging techniques like X-rays or CT scans that show anatomical structures, PET scans highlight the biochemical activity of tissues and organs. How Does a PET Scan Work? Radiotracer Injection : The procedure begins with an injection of a radiotracer, which is a radioactive substance typically combined with glucose. This combination is crucial because cancer cells, which are highly metabolically active, consume glucose at a much h...