Detecting cancer before it has progressed can greatly enhance both treatment outcomes and chances of survival for patients. Due to recent advancements in Medical Imaging, new forms of testing such as a PET CT scan may aid in the diagnosis and management of Cancer effectively & ultimately improve the chance of survival. One question many patients may have regarding a PET CT scan is: Will it detect cancer? As with anything in Life, there are always limitations, but here are some ways a PET-CT scan in Mohali may help to detect cancer at an early stage.
What is a PET CT scan?
A PET CT scan is a combination of two different types of tests: PET (Positron Emission Tomography), which shows us the metabolic activity within our bodies, and CT (Computed Tomography), which gives a detailed image of the internal anatomy of our bodies. To perform this procedure, a small amount of radioactive glucose F-D-G will be injected into the body and because of the increased metabolism and glucose consumption that is inherent with some types of cancers, the area(s) where the cancerous cells are will show up as bright spots. PET CT scans provide a method of detecting some cancers before the usual structural changes appear on Routine Imaging (CT/MRI), which is one of the reasons why this method is beneficial for the early diagnosis of many types of cancers.
There are several benefits of using PET CT, including:
- Early detection of abnormal metabolic activity
- Ability to detect small tumors before they produce symptoms
- Distinguishing between benign and malignant lesions
- Finding primary cancers that are either hidden or unknown
There are many types of cancers in which metabolic changes occur earlier in the cancer process than do physical changes. PET CT allows for early detection of cancer in these categories.
Types of Cancers Where PET CT is Most Useful
The primary types of cancers for which PET-CT scan in Mohali are most helpful in making early diagnosis and determining the stage include:
- Lung cancer
- Lymphoma
- Breast (in specific cases)
- Head and neck
- Colorectal
- Esophagus
Additionally, PET CT scans are very useful in determining whether or not cancer has spread or returned.
PET CT vs CT or MRI
While CT or MRI focuses on the size and shape of tumors, PET CT scans look at how active the cells are. Therefore, with a PET CT scan, you can determine:
- Scar tissue can be separated from active cancer
- A treatment response can be identified sooner
- Even though the size of the tumor may not have changed, active disease may be identified
This functional data from a PET-CT scan in Mohali gives physicians a significant advantage when diagnosing cancer during its early stages.
If you are searching for PET-CT scan in Chandigarh, Sohana Hospital Mohali might be your trusted ally. Sohana Hospital boasts of cutting-edge technology and nuclear medicine professionals who provide the most comprehensive pet ct scan services. Book your appointment today!