Irving, TX – Nov 26, 2018 – Positron emission tomography (PET) is an imaging technology that evaluates how body organs and tissues work at the cellular level. PET has a broad range of diagnostic applications in cancer care. It examines the active living cells and evaluates their functional activities. PET imaging can also measure the oxygen intake, blood flow, how the body uses sugar and the speed at which a cell replicates. A PET scan can detect early onset of a disease or diagnose and assess the severity of any disease such as heart disease, cancer, or disorders of the brain before any other imaging tests by identifying the abnormalities in cellular metabolism.

"PET scans are preferable because they provide high levels of information compared to other traditional imaging techniques," explained the radiologist. "They specifically show the chemical activity in the body, making them ideal for detecting and monitoring a variety of body conditions.”

PET can be used to diagnose various conditions depending on the radiotracer being used. PET scans can be conducted alone or in combination with other imaging techniques to get better results in various applications such as:

• Cardiology – PET is the most common form of diagnostic testing used in cardiology for coronary heart disease and myocardial viability. PET scans can help to differentiate myocardium from infarcted tissue in patients who are suspected to have stunned or hibernating myocardium.

• Oncology –PET helps in investigative studies in oncology using the 18F-FDG. It is also distinctively used in clinical areas such as cancers, melanoma, tumors, strokes, and lymphoma.

• Neurology –PET is used to distinguish recurrent brain tumors from necrosis or radiation fibrosis, which is important to neurological studies. The isotope 11C which is produced from 14N2 (608661) is used in PET scans as a radiotracer to study abnormal or normal brain functions. It is one of the methods used in localizing the areas of the brain that are affected by epileptic seizures.

• Pharmacology – In pre-clinical trials, PET offers researchers the ability to produce radiolabeled drugs.

• Neuropsychology and Cognitive Neuroscience Pharmacology – PET is used to study psychiatric disorders in clinical applications. Thanks to PET there are now studies that link direct visualization of blunted regional brain responses to serotonin release with major depression. PET also helps to evaluate neurological activity in patients with amnesia.

"PET scans are essential in diagnostic processes and can help physicians plan the next stage of treatment," continued the radiologist. "You should discuss with the doctor before taking a PET scan to avoid any risks.”

About PET/CT of Las Colinas

PET/CT of Las Colinas is dedicated to the care and wellbeing of our patients. We understand that the foundation of a successful treatment plan – or a clean bill of health – begins with sophisticated, accurate imagery. We look forward to providing you with the highest level of care. Our imaging center is located conveniently across the highway from the Las Colinas Medical Center within the Las Colinas Cancer Center on Highway 161 in Irving, TX. and – once here – we offer hassle-free curbside parking.

Visit them at https://pet-ct-lascolinas.com/contact-us/ to know more.