Positron emission tomography
PET scanners work by detecting the radiation given off by a substance called a radiotracer as it collects in different parts of your body.
In most PET scans a radiotracer called fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) is used, which is similar to naturally occurring glucose (a type of sugar) so your body treats it in a similar way.
By analysing the areas where the radiotracer does and doesn't build up, it's possible to work out how well certain body functions are working and identify any abnormalities.
For example, a concentration of FDG in the body's tissues can help identify cancerous cells because cancer cells use glucose at a much faster rate than normal cells.
Positron emission tomography (PET) scans are used to produce detailed three-dimensional images of the inside of the body.
An advantage of a PETscan is that itcan show how well certain parts of your body are working, rather that showing what it looks like. They'reparticularlyhelpful for investigating confirmed cases of c
PET scanners work by detecting the radiation given off by a substance called a radiotracer as it collects in different parts of your body. In most PET scans a radiotracer called fluorodeoxyglucose (
PET scans are usually carried out on an outpatient basis. This means you won't need to stay in hospital overnight. It's important to arrive on time for your scan, as theradiotracer used has a short s
Any exposure to radiation carries a very small risk of potential tissue damage that couldlead tocancer at a later date. However, in a standard PET scan the amount of radiation you're exposed to issma