Understand the limitations of a PET CT scan. Learn what this advanced imaging test cannot do and why other diagnostic tools might be needed for a complete diagnosis.
Introduction
The PET CT scan is one of the most sophisticated diagnostic imaging technologies available today. The combination of Positron Emission tomography (PET) and Computed Tomography (CT) techniques provides complete details on the structure and functioning of the tissues and organs. Its importance in diagnosing cancer, diagnosing heart disease, determining the neurological disorders, and in monitoring the effects of treatment cannot be overemphasized.
Why is PET CT not always a definitive diagnosis?
The downside of PET CT scan is that it cannot deliver the complete diagnosis as a standalone test. While these scans are known for spotting regions of heightened metabolic function, it cannot indicate the reason for those metabolic changes in full detail.
Inflammation, infection and some benign conditions, for instance, may show up as cancer on PET CT scans. Sometimes, patients need to go through a range of other tests such as blood tests, MRI, CT scan, ultrasound, or biopsy before confirming the diagnosis.
Detection of Minor Lesion may not be Possible
Although PET CT scans exhibit a high level of sensitivity, the minor lesions and tumors may remain invisible. Minor anomalies may not be able to capture enough of the radioactive tracer thus preventing their identification when the lesions are of minor size.
Not all cancer types are PET-AVID
Another flaw in PET CT scanning is that not all cancers use the radioactive tracer similarly. Slow-growing tumors may have a low metabolic rate thus making it difficult to identify them while using PET CT.
Some examples of such tumors are specific prostate cancers and low-grade lymphomas as well as particular types of brain tumors. In this case, other imaging methods can be more beneficial.
False-positive finding
PET CT scans are sometimes able to provide false positive results. It means that the scan reveals some regions that absorb the radioactive tracer, although this does not mean that there are any malignant processes in the body.
False-positive findings can be caused by:
• Active infections.
• Inflammatory diseases.
• Recent surgeries.
• Healing injuries.
• Certain autoimmune diseases.
False negatives
Although rare, false negatives may sometimes happen. Certain cancer cases might not cause significant metabolism and imaging, particularly when tumors are tiny or display low activity.
Limited use during pregnancy
PET CT scans involve exposure to radiation originating from the radioactive tracer and the CT scan. Thus, this examination is typically not performed during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary.
Blood glucose levels can affect results
Since the commonest tracers are glucose-based, increased levels of sugar may interfere with the scanning results. Patients with uncontrolled diabetes may need to prepare specially for the examination or postpone this procedure.
Risks associated with radiation exposure
The radiation dose of the PET CT scan is safe for most patients. However, it is higher than that of the regular X-ray or CT scan. Thus, doctors advise performing this investigation only when its diagnostic advantages are greater than the risk of exposure to radiation.
PET CT scan, book online in Delhi at Ganesh Diagnostic
Ø PSMA PET Scan For Liver (Book Now)
Ø Brain PET scan (Book Now)
Ø F-18 Choline PET Scan (Book Now)
Ø FDG-PET Scan (Book Now)
Ø DOTA PET CT Scan (Book Now)
Ø Full Body PET Scan (Book Now)
Can I book a PET CT scan online in Rohini, Delhi?
Yes, you can visit Ganesh Diagnostic Center website to book PET scan test online in Rohini, Delhi or you can call at +91-9212125996 or +91-9810183948 to book the test directly and also get instructions for the test.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Is it possible for PET CT scan to overlook cancer?
Yes, some cancerous growths that are minute or have slower growth patterns may not be reflected properly in the images produced by the PET CT scan. Hence, it might be recommended that additional tests be performed.
How do infections end up reflected in a PET CT scan?
Infections and inflammations heighten the metabolism of the affected tissues, leading to increased absorption of the radioactive tracer, which results in images similar to those caused by cancers.
Can a PET CT scan be sufficient for diagnosing cancer?
This might not always be the case. Though the PET CT scan is of great help, it may be needed that a biopsy or some other imaging procedure be performed to make a diagnosis.
