PET examination, i.e. positron emission tomography, is a non-invasive diagnostic examination that allows to detect even small neoplastic changes. Pathological changes diagnosed at an early stage of development give the best chances for the patient to be cured. What does the PET-C examination look like and how does it work? What are the indications for its implementation?

Positron emission tomography( PETpositron emission tomography) is the most frequently used examination in oncology. Its implementation is recommended for people in whom doctors suspect the presence ofmalignant neoplasm , and other diagnostic methods do not allow to identify the origin of the primary disease. It allows you to determine whether the detected change is benign or malignant.

What does a PET scan define?

PET examination primarilydetermines the malignancy of neoplasms . In addition, the test is used tomonitor the progress of the treatment started- the doctor can check whether the chemotherapy used gives the expected results and the body responds properly to the treatment.

Thanks to positron emission tomography, the doctor is able to determine whether the performed surgery was correct or complete.

In addition, the test allowsto assess the possible recurrence of the tumorafter treatment has already been completed. It also allows to determine the existence of possible metastases.

PET examination is also appreciated in cardiology,where it enables the assessment of the vitality of the heart and measurement of blood flow.

It is also used in neurology , where there are a number of indications for its implementation. It is used to diagnose ischemic changes in the brain and brain tumors. It is also used in the search for epileptic foci.

What is PET testing?

The study of positron emission tomography consists in recording the radiation resulting from the emission of positrons by particles labeled with isotopes. Before the test is performed, the patient should be given a special injection of glucose associated with the fluorine isotope.

The givenisotopeshould beshort-lived- the period of its decay must be from several minutes to several hours.

The substance concentrates only in places with active tissuesmetabolically, i.e. neoplastic tissues. It is in them that the most of the given isotope accumulates. After the injection, the patient, lying down, spends an hour in a darkened room.

After this time, the patient is placed in a special scanner. You cannot move during the test.

The places with the greatest amounts of the isotope are visible during the test.

Diseased cells use up more glucose, their appearance differs from that of he althy cells, which enables the doctor to interpret the result correctly.

How to prepare for a PET examination?

You should prepare yourself properly for positron emission tomography. You are not allowed to drink or eat approximately 5-6 hours prior to testing to reduce insulin levels in the body and uptake glucose in adipose tissue, heart muscle, and skeletal muscles.

The patient must not drink alcohol or consume caffeine 24 hours before the examination. The exception is clean water. Additionally, the day before, you should give up all physical activity.

Importantly, people with diabetes and women planning to become pregnant should consult their he althcare professional first.

Contraindications for PET examination

Although positron emission tomography is considered safe, it may not be performed in every patient. The dose of ionizing radiation, although not large, cannot be absorbed by the body of pregnant and breastfeeding women.

In their case, other diagnostics will be required. Testing that requires glucose administration should also not be performed in people with uncontrolled diabetes.

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