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FDG-18 PET/CT

Advanced Imaging That Shows How Your Body Is Functioning

 

An FDG PET/CT scan is an advanced imaging exam that combines two types of imaging—Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Computed Tomography (CT)—into a single study. While CT provides detailed images of the body's anatomy, PET provides information about how tissues and cells are functioning.

Together, PET and CT can help your doctor identify areas of abnormal activity and determine exactly where they are located in the body.

 

What Is FDG?

FDG stands for fluorodeoxyglucose, a small amount of radioactive tracer that is similar to glucose (sugar). After FDG is injected into a vein, it travels throughout the body and is absorbed by cells. Cells that are more metabolically active tend to use more glucose and may therefore take up more FDG. The PET scanner detects this activity and creates images showing patterns of FDG uptake throughout the body. Because many cancers have increased metabolic activity, FDG PET/CT is commonly used in cancer care. However, increased FDG uptake is not specific to cancer and can also occur with inflammation, infection, and normal physiologic activity. Your PET/CT images are interpreted in the context of your medical history and other imaging findings.

 

Why Is an FDG PET/CT Performed?

Your doctor may order an FDG PET/CT to:

  • Detect or evaluate certain cancers

  • Determine whether cancer has spread to other parts of the body

  • Assess how a cancer is responding to treatment

  • Look for possible cancer recurrence after treatment

  • Help distinguish active disease from certain treated or inactive abnormalities

  • Evaluate selected inflammatory or infectious conditions

The specific reason for your PET/CT will depend on your medical history and your doctor's recommendations.

 

What Should I Expect?

 

Before Your Exam

Preparation is extremely important because blood glucose levels and muscle activity can affect how FDG is distributed throughout the body.

Please carefully follow these instructions before your appointment.

 

During Your Exam

When you arrive, our team will review your history and preparation. Your blood glucose may be checked before the FDG tracer is administered.

A small amount of FDG will then be injected through an IV. After the injection, you will rest quietly while the tracer circulates throughout your body. This uptake period is typically about one hour.. You will then lie on the PET/CT scanner table while images are obtained. It is important to remain still during imaging so that the PET and CT images align properly.

The scanning portion itself is generally painless.

 

How Long Does a PET/CT Take?

You should plan to be at the imaging center for approximately 1½ to 2 hours, although the exact time may vary. Much of this time is spent resting quietly after the FDG injection before the images are obtained.

 

Is FDG PET/CT Safe?

PET/CT uses a small amount of radioactive material as well as X-rays from the CT portion of the examination. The radioactive tracer naturally loses its radioactivity over time and is eliminated from the body. Drinking plenty of water after your examination can help your body eliminate the tracer. If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are breastfeeding, please notify us before your examination. If you routinely take care of children that require close, hands-on care, we will talk to you about how you can minimze exposure to them.

 

After Your PET/CT

Most patients can return to their normal activities after the exam. You will generally be encouraged to drink additional water for the remainder of the day. 

A radiologist will carefully review your PET and CT images and prepare a report for your referring healthcare provider. Your provider will discuss the results with you and explain how they relate to your care.

 

FDG PET/CT at Bright Light Medical Imaging

At Bright Light Medical Imaging, we believe advanced imaging should still feel personal. Our team is committed to providing high-quality diagnostic imaging in a comfortable, welcoming environment while making the imaging process as easy to understand as possible.

From scheduling and preparation through your examination and results, our goal is to provide the excellent care and personal attention you deserve.

 

Have questions about your PET/CT or need to schedule an appointment? Contact Bright Light Medical Imaging and our team will be happy to assist you! Shine Bright!