PET scan is the acronym used for Positron Emission Tomography scan. This exam is characterized by the infusion of a weakly radioactive substance into the bloodstream, whose distribution throughout the body is measured by equipment.
This equipment reconstructs the image of the body and identifies regions of the body according to the degree of uptake of the radioactive substance.
In oncology, substances taken up by cells with a high proliferation rate are usually injected. Through the PET scan, areas with high uptake usually correspond to the locations of existing neoplasms.
In oncology, PET scans are indicated in specific cases, most commonly to confirm or rule out the presence of cancer in areas showing doubtful changes in other radiological exams.
