A PET scan (Positron Emission Tomography) is a type of imaging test that uses a small amount of radioactive substance (called a tracer) to show how organs and tissues are working.

• It helps detect abnormal metabolic activity, which often signals diseases like cancer.
• PET scans are often combined with CT or MRI for even more detailed images.

The PET scan works in a few simple steps:

1. Tracer Injection: A radioactive sugar-like substance is injected into the bloodstream.
2. Absorption: Cells absorb the tracer—active or diseased cells (like cancer) take up more.
3. Imaging: The PET scanner detects this activity and creates 3D images.

This shows doctors where abnormal cells are located and how active they are.

Doctors recommend PET scans for different conditions, including:

• Cancer detection and staging: Identifies tumors, spread of cancer, and treatment response.
• Heart disease: Shows blood flow and detects damaged heart tissue after a heart attack.
• Neurological disorders: Helps diagnose Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, epilepsy, and brain tumors.
• Monitoring treatment: Evaluates how well chemotherapy or other therapies are working.

Before the Scan

• You may need to fast for 4–6 hours.
• Avoid strenuous exercise before the test.
• Inform your doctor if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or diabetic.

During the Scan

• The tracer is injected, and you may wait 30–60 minutes for it to spread.
• You’ll lie on a table that slides into the scanner.
• The machine takes images for 20–40 minutes.

After the Scan

• You can return to normal activities.
• Drink plenty of water to flush out the tracer.
• Results are analyzed by a radiologist and shared with your doctor.