However, medically approved devices, such as pacemakers and artificial joints, should not interfere with the procedure. In addition, a person may be asked to avoid eating at least 6 hours before a PET scan, although water is generally allowed.Ī person with diabetes will receive special instructions since fasting before testing may negatively affect their blood sugar levels.Īccessories such as jewelry or piercing may interfere with the PET scan, and should be removed before the scan. However, some instructions may include avoiding strenuous activities 24–48 hours beforehand and avoiding sugar and carbohydrates. Preparations for the two types of PET scans are different, and a person will need to confirm details with their doctor. When a doctor orders a PET scan, they will provide the person with instructions on how to prepare for the examination. In addition, a person who is pregnant or breastfeeding, or has claustrophobia, may want to talk to their doctor before taking the test. If a person has allergies to certain substances, including aspartame, saccharin, and iodine, they should tell their doctor before the test. However, some people may have an allergic reaction to the tracers. While a PET scan involves ingesting or coming into contact with radioactive tracers, exposure to radiation is minimal. Doctors may also use PET scans to verify whether cancer treatment is effective. brain disorders, injuries, and other central nervous system issuesĪ PET scan can detect issues with oxygen intake, metabolism, and blood flow, and may show if cancer has spread or reoccurred.What is it used to detect?ĭoctors use PET scans to detect the following: The scan is used to diagnose certain health conditions, check on an existing condition, and plan and confirm treatment.Ī person’s doctor generally requests a PET scan, and a person can check if the radiologist is accredited by using this online tool. PET scans are generally used in neurology and cardiology, and for cancer treatment, and may be combined with a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computerized tomography (CT) scan. The body’s organs absorb the tracers, which allows a medical professional to examine them. Myocardial Perfusion PET (also called Adenosine or Rubidium PET) is generally used for cardiac examinations.įDG PET can also be used to study the heart, as well as the brain, and for tumors or other types of infection.īoth PET scans use a radioactive tracer to visualize specific areas of the body.īefore the scan, a person is required to ingest, inhale, or receive an injection of a dye that has radioactive tracers, also called radio pharmaceuticals or radiotracers. It shows bodily activity on a cellular level by using radiation. Share on Pinterest Image credit: baranozdemir/Getty ImagesĪ PET scan is a type of imaging test, which is used to diagnose medical conditions.

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