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Oncological PET-CT

Oncological PET-CT plays a critical role in staging and treatment response by imaging tumor metabolic activity with 18F-FDG.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Radyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Oncological PET-CT?

PET-CT (positron emission tomography-computed tomography) is based on the accumulation of radiopharmaceuticals such as 18F-FDG in tumor cells with increased glucose metabolism. CT provides anatomical correlation.

Applications include staging, treatment planning, recurrence investigation, and response assessment in lung, lymphoma, breast, colorectal, head and neck, esophageal, melanoma, and ovarian cancers.

SUV (standardized uptake value) provides quantitative assessment, but inflammation and infection can lead to false positives. Acquisition time can take 2-3 hours.

Symptoms

Staging of malignancy
Investigation of recurrence or metastasis
Assessment of treatment response
Metastatic disease of unknown primary
Contribution to radiotherapy planning
Characterization of solid lung nodules

Risk Factors

Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Uncontrolled diabetes (misleading results)
Failure to follow fasting requirement
Severe renal failure (with contrast CT)
Recent chemotherapy (interpretive impact)
Motion artifact

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Performed at the oncologist's referral
  • Fasting duration and blood glucose control must be observed
  • Diabetic patients may require a special protocol
  • Hydration is recommended after the scan

Treatment Methods

01
At least 6 hours of fasting and normal blood glucose
02
IV 18F-FDG administration and 60-minute waiting
03
Whole-body PET-CT scan
04
Reporting with SUV values
05
Multidisciplinary tumor board review
06
Integration with the subsequent treatment plan

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Radyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.