What is PET Scan?
PET Scan is a diagnostic imaging test that utilises a radioactive substance called a tracer to help reveal the metabolic or biochemical function of tissues & organs. It’s conducted to help detect, monitor and evaluate diseases & health conditions.
What is PET Scan used for?
PET scan is generally used to:
- Diagnose or monitor specific cancers, such as breast, thyroid & lung cancers
- Reveal how well the heart muscle is working
- Examine blood flow to the heart
- Look for signs of particular brain disorders, like Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease & some kinds of dementia.
Most Common Diagnosis of PET Scan
The most common health disorders or diseases a PET scan can diagnose are:-
- Cancer: PET scan helps diagnose cancer and understand how far cancer has spread in the human body. It can show solid tumors in the brain, prostate, thyroid, lungs & cervix. Besides diagnosis, it’s also used to evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing treatment in curing cancer.
- Brain Disorders: In addition to detecting brain tumors, PET scan also helps diagnose brain disorders like Alzheimer’s, seizures, and memory disorders.
- Heart Disease: PET scan helps assess the severe nature of coronary heart disease and assists in evaluating the need for surgery.
Results of PET Scan
Taking into account which body part has been scanned, the PET scan results may show:-
- Cancer: PET scan shows a wide array of cancer cells in the form of bright spots in the images generated during the scan.
- Brain Disorders: It may show changes in specific brain chemicals that can help diagnose disease.
- Heart Disease: PET scan displays reduced blood flow to the heart.
The images generated during the PET scan are examined & interpreted by a specially trained healthcare professional called a radiologist, who reports the findings of the scan to the doctor.
Conclusion
PET scan is a crucial diagnostic tool that helps detect a wide range of chronic conditions, such as cancer, brain disorders & heart disease. Doctors use PET scan images to diagnose, monitor and treat various health conditions.
If you are looking to get a PET scan done for you or your family member, then get in touch with the healthcare experts at Clinico!
Our world-class PET Scan facility in our recently inaugurated state-of-the-art Thane centre provides fast & accurate results in a safe and customer-friendly environment.
Call us 24×7 on 9504555555 to schedule an appointment.
