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PET-CT (Positron Emission Tomography)

PET-CT measures metabolic activity using radioactive isotopes and provides critical information in cancer, neurology, and cardiology.

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 PET-CT (Positron Emission Tomography)?

PET-CT is an advanced imaging method that combines PET, which measures the distribution of radiolabeled substances such as glucose (FDG) in the body, with CT, which provides anatomical detail.

Because cancer cells consume high amounts of glucose, tumors appear as bright foci. It is an indispensable tool in staging, treatment-response monitoring, and recurrence evaluation.

Symptoms

Cancer staging and search for distant metastases
Evaluation of treatment response after chemotherapy/radiotherapy
Suspicion of recurrence (elevated tumor markers, negative CT)
Search for an unknown primary tumor
Neurological: localization of the focus before epilepsy surgery
Cardiology: assessment of myocardial viability

Risk Factors

Radiation exposure (from the CT component)
Hyperglycemia in diabetes degrades image quality
Not performed during pregnancy and breastfeeding
After radioactive substance injection, contact with infants and children should be limited for several hours
Renal failure may restrict use of contrast
An expensive test that can only be performed in selected centers

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • PET-CT indication is set by the oncologist or neurologist
  • Fast for 6 hours before the test and have your blood sugar checked
  • If you are diabetic, inform the radiology team for dose adjustment
  • Test results should be evaluated with your oncologist

Treatment Methods

01
PET-CT is a diagnostic and staging tool
02
Surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy is planned based on findings
03
Periodic PET-CT is used to monitor treatment response
04
In epilepsy surgery, the PET focus guides neurosurgical planning
05
Findings of myocardial viability support the decision for revascularization

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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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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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.