A positron emission tomography (PET) scan is an imaging test that enables your doctor to detect diseases in your body.
Your doctor may order a PET scan to check your oxygen intake, your blood flow, or the metabolism of your organs and tissues. PET scans detect problems at the cellular level, giving your doctor the best view of complex systemic diseases. CT scans and MRIs can only show changes later, as a disease alters the structure of your organs or tissues.
PET scans are generally used to detect heart problems, cancer, and brain disorders, including problems with the central nervous system (CNS).
It takes about 30-40 minutes and is typically an outpatient procedure, which means you can go about your day after the test.
The PET scan involves radioactive tracers, but the exposure to harmful radiation is minimal. And compared to how beneficial the results can be in diagnosing severe medical conditions, the risks are very minimal.
However, it can pose serious risks for people with allergies, other health conditions, and pregnant women.
The cost of a PET Scan in India starts from USD 491.
