Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
PET Uses
Cancer
PET scan of lymphoma
15 mCi 68 min.
p.i.: 3 min em 43 sec tx/step
Images courtesy of University of Pennsylvania
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PET is particularly effective in identifying whether cancer is
present or not, if it has spread, if it is responding to treatment,
and if a person is cancer free after treatment. Cancers for which
PET is considered particularly effective include lung, head and
neck, colorectal, esophageal, lymphoma, melanoma and breast, as
well as a variety of other tumors for which the effectiveness
of PET is currently under investigation.
- Early Detection
Because PET images biochemical activity, it can accurately characterize
a tumor as benign or malignant. This can eliminate the need
for a surgical biopsy in some cases.
- Staging of Cancer
PET can accurately determine the full extent of a disease, especially
in lymphoma, malignant melanoma, breast, lung and colon cancers.
This sensitivity allows the physician to choose among treatment
options more effectively.
- Checking for Recurrences
PET is currently considered to be the most accurate diagnostic
procedure when it comes to differentiating tumor regrowth from
common radiation or surgical side-effects. This approach allows
the physician to develop a more accurate treatment plan for
the patient.
- Assessing the Effectiveness of Chemotherapy
Tumor metabolism can be compared on PET scans taken before and
after a chemotherapy cycle. Because of this PET can provide
important information about the effectiveness of a chemotherapy
treatment plan.
With CT or MRI
Because PET measures metabolism it can be superior to other procedure,
particularly in differentiating tumors from benign lesions, and
in differentiating malignant tumors from non-malignant masses
such as scar tissue, which may be formed from treatments like
radiation therapy. In specific instances, PET may be used in conjunction
with an MRI or CT scan through "fusion" to give a full
three-dimensional view of an organ and the location of a tumor
within that organ.
Neurological Disease
PET scan of focal epilepsy
2 mm slices
Images courtesy of University of Pennsylvania
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A PET scan's ability to measure metabolism has significant implications
for diagnosing epilepsy, because it can vividly illustrate areas
where brain activity differs from the norm.
Cardiovascular Disease
PET scans can pinpoint areas of decreased blood flow caused by
blockages, and differentiate muscle damage from living muscle.
This information is particularly important in patients who have
had previous heart attack and who are being considered for a cardiac
procedures.
For more information about PET at Rhode Island Hospital
or to schedule an physician-referred appointment, please call 401-444-7383.
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