Is a PET scan different from a CT or MRI scan?

 

What is a PET Scan?

PET stands for Positron Emission Tomography. This scan is primarily used to identify initial signs of cancer, heart disease & brain disorders and sometimes to help diagnose Alzheimer’s and epilepsy.

PET Scan involves the usage of a safe injectable radioactive chemical named radiotracer and a device called PET scanner. The PET scanner detects diseased cells that absorb vast amounts of the radiotracer, which symbolises a potential health issue.

Benefits of PET Scan

The perks of PET scan include helping:

  • Measure vital functions, like blood flow, oxygen use & blood sugar (glucose) metabolism
  • Detect organs & tissues that aren’t working properly
  • Identify cancerous tumour cells to help assess cancer spread (metastasis)
  • Monitor & evaluate the success of an ongoing treatment plan

Types of PET Scan

There are many different types of PET scans. However, the most commonly used PET scans include:

    • PET/CT Scan

As the name suggests, a PET/CT scan is a hybrid of imaging technology that combines PET & CT scans to generate 3D images that offer a highly precise diagnosis.

    • PET f-18 FDG Scan

This is a glucose scan that may be done instantly after the PET scan to ascertain if the heart muscle has permanent damage.

A cardiac PET or SPECT scan is a kind of cardiac molecular imaging that involves injecting a radioactive label or tracer to circulate to the heart. A heart scan is subsequently done, which identifies the signal of the tracer & generates a 3D image to get a PET scan done in the coming days?

What is a CT Scan?

To put it in simple terms, a Computerized Tomography (CT) scan uses multiple X-rays from different angles & positions to generate a 3D image, as opposed to a traditional X-ray which produces a standard 2D image.

CT scans are typically used to scan for infections, tumours and detect cancer before it has spread & grown and identify internal bleeding.

The drawback of CT scans is similar to that of X-rays: they use radiation which implies that a patient cannot get multiple CT scans done in a short span without risk.

What is an MRI Scan?

In contrast to X-rays and CT scans, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) doesn’t involve the use of potentially harmful ionising radiation. Instead, an MRI scan consists of a combination of radio waves & magnets to generate a detailed, cross-sectional image that helps diagnose injuries and other problems within a human body.

MRIs are regularly used to evaluate infections and tumours. Sports injuries are also detected as they are particularly effective in diagnosing broken bones and torn ligaments.

How is PET Scan different from CT Scan & MRI Scan?

Coming to the main topic, let’s check out how a PET scan is different from a CT scan or MRI.

PET ScanCT ScanMRI Scan
Use a Radioactive TracerUse X-raysUse Magnets & Radio Waves
Generate still and 3D colour images of the processes within the human bodyGenerate still and 3D images of organs & body structuresGenerate still images of organs & body structures
Detect cellular changes in organs & tissues earlier than CT & MRI scansDetect cellular changes in organs & tissues slower than PET scanDetect cellular changes in organs & tissues slower than PET scan

Some doctors may conduct a PET scan and CT scan simultaneously, known as PET/CT scan, which we discussed earlier. This hybrid test generates 3D images that facilitate a highly accurate diagnosis.

Moreover, some hospitals now also perform a hybrid PET/MRI scan. This scan results in the creation of very high-contrast images that can be utilised for diagnosing & monitoring cancers of the soft tissues (brain, head & neck, liver & pelvis).

Conclusion

To sum it up, all three scans differ in their work and usage. Each has its advantages & drawbacks and should only be done on the recommendation of a healthcare professional. Radiologist is the right person to guide for the right usage of the modality.

Are you looking to get any of these three scans done?

Clinico is at your service!

One of Mumbai’s highly rated diagnostic chains and an established NABL certified brand, we offer excellent diagnostic & pathology services in Mulund, Bhandup, Thane & Navi Mumbai.

Schedule Your MRI / CT Scan / PET Scan Now! Contact us 24×7 on 9504555555.

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