PET and CT that is, Positron Emission Tomography and Computed Tomography imaging are gradually becoming crucial tools in medical development. Physicians employ these tools to diagnose various harms more commonly to diagnose and interpret the presence and therefore the severity of the killing disease cancer.  PET and CT not only help to detect the presence of cancer but also, its extent. It enables them to evaluate various treatments and appoint the best suited for particular individuals and speculate the effectiveness of the therapy.

How does the imaging take place?

Prior to the PET and CT imaging, the patient is given an injection of glucose which is radioactive as well as intravenous. Cancer cells being extremely metabolic, as well as speedy synthesizers of radioactive glucose, help the physicians to a great extent. These cells on absorbing the glucose assist in detecting the abnormal amount of glucose in the body and hence tracing the prime cause of cancer. PET and CT imaging, also indicates as to whether the cancer is constrained to a specific area or has multiplied towards the other body parts also. This greatly assists the doctors to strategise and come to an appropriate treatment plan.

Are there any Risks involved in PET-CT?

As mentioned earlier, in the case of a PET- CT imaging, a radioactive drug or glucose (tracer) will be injected in the patient’s body in small amounts.A number of things which could happen are

• Lead to an allergic reaction, though this happens in rare instance.
• Harm if an unborn child is exposed to radiation when the patient is pregnant

How is the quality of PET CT imaging centres?

The PET and CT scanners were introduced around 10-15 years ago. At present they have gained enormous popularity and are considered to be greatly effective in detection and treatment of various types of cancers. It has brought a huge improvement in image interpretation. In order to maintain this accuracy and credibility a number of ensures have been adopted which prove as a drawback of PET and CT scan. A lab needs approval from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) in order to set up a PET and CT scanner.

PET CT in all is a great tool through the help of which, doctors are able to form a more accurate opinion on the patient’s illness.PET CT is expanding by leaps and bounds playing a vital role in treatment of cancer.