Positron Emission Tomography, commonly referred to as PET/CT, is an advanced diagnostic imaging procedure, like MRI and CT. PET/CT is a scanner that has PET and CT combined into one unit. The PET/CT scanner acquires both PET and CT images almost simultaneously.
The PET scan creates an image of how the body is functioning, while the CT scan creates an image of the body’s anatomy. Together, they provide the most accurate test for many types of disease.
PET/CT is most often used to diagnose cancer and to guide treatment. It can also be used to identify abnormalities of the heart and brain. In many cases, PET/CT can identify abnormalities much earlier than MRI or CT.
