Positron Emission Tomography (PET)

ECT (Emission Computed Tomography), PET (Positron Emission Tomography) Scan

Results

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a test that uses a special type of camera and a tracer (radioactive chemical) to look at organs in the body.

The radiologist may discuss preliminary results of the PET scan with you right after the test. Complete results are usually available in 1 to 2 days.

Positron emission tomography (PET)

Normal:		Blood flow is normal and organs are working well. The flow and pattern of the tracer shows normal distribution in the body.
Abnormal:	Heart:	Decreased blood flow and increased glucose metabolism may show that the blood vessels are blocked. This may mean coronary artery disease (CAD) is present. Decreased blood flow and glucose metabolism may mean that heart tissue is scarred and damaged, such as from a heart attack.
	Brain:	Areas of increased glucose metabolism or lower oxygen use and blood flow may mean you have epilepsy. Decreased oxygen use and blood flow may mean a stroke has occurred. Decreased glucose metabolism may mean a form of dementia. Dementia may be caused by Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, or mental illness, such as schizophrenia. Patterns of blood flow and oxygen use that are not normal may mean a brain tumour is present. See a picture of PET scans of the brain.
	Tumour detection:	Areas of increased glucose metabolism may mean a tumour is present.

 

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Douglas Dana Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: November 12, 2007
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology Kenneth B. Sutherland, CD, BSc, MD, FRCPC - Diagnostic Radiology
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.