PET/CT Scan for Cancer Diagnosis
Are you facing uncertainty after a cancer diagnosis? A PET/CT scan may be the next step to getting more clarity.
At UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, we offer advanced PET/CT imaging to patients who need answers about their condition, whether for initial diagnosis, cancer staging, or ongoing treatment planning. If you are seeking precise, non-invasive cancer evaluation, our expert team is here to help guide your next move.
What Is a PET/CT Scan?
PET/CT is an advanced imaging technology that helps doctors detect cancer and other diseases early and accurately. It combines two powerful tools in one scan:
- CT (Computed Tomography): Delivers high-resolution images of the body’s internal structures. It is useful for locating tumors to determine their exact location, size, and shape.
- PET (Positron Emission Tomography): Shows how cells and tissues are functioning. It sees a 360-degree view of the body.
By combining these two methods, PET/CT offers a more complete picture of what’s happening inside the body. This allows doctors to detect disease earlier – sometimes even before changes are visible on a standard CT scan.
Another benefit: since both scans are performed at the same time, patients are exposed to less radiation than if the tests were done separately.
Also, if your oncologist or radiation therapist requires a CT scan (e.g., for radiation planning), a CT contrast can be applied at the same time, allowing both procedures to be completed in a single visit to the Center
Why is a PET/CT Scan Important in Cancer Care?
PET/CT scans are used to:
- Diagnose and stage tumors.
- Identify lymph node cancers accurately.
- Detect metastatic tumors earlier.
- Plan cancer treatment.
- Track the progress of treatment and effectiveness of therapy.
- Assess the return of cancer.
Cancer Types We Diagnose with PET/CT
A PET/CT scan provides greater diagnostic accuracy for many cancers, including:
- Colorectal cancer.
- Head and neck cancer.
- Lung cancer.
- Lymphoma and Hodgkin's disease.
- Melanoma.
- Prostate cancer.
- Pancreatic cancer.
- Ovarian and cervical cancers.
- Musculoskeletal cancers.
What to Expect During the PET/CT Scan Process
At UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, we want you to feel informed and comfortable throughout your PET/CT scan experience. Here is what you can expect before and during your appointment.
Before your PET/CT scan
Once your appointment is scheduled, lab results are needed for:
- Blood glucose (GUK).
- Urea.
- Creatinine.
These tests must be completed within 30 days of your scan.
On the day of your scan
Plan to spend about 2 hours at the PET/CT imaging center.
Your blood sugar will be checked before the scan.
A small intravenous (IV) cannula (needle) will be placed in your arm or hand to administer the radioactive agent (radiopharmaceutical). The radiopharmaceutical will circulate through your body for 45 to 60 minutes before the scan begins, during which time you may sit or lie down in a comfortable chair.
You will then lie on a comfortable scanner bed for 20 to 25 minutes, depending on your imaging protocol. The scanner is designed to minimize discomfort, and your head will remain outside the tunnel for most of the scan to reduce any feeling of claustrophobia.
What to wear
On the day of your scan, wear comfortable clothing without any metal, jewelry, wires, or piercings.
Dental or metal implants will not interfere with the scan.
What Choose UPMC Hillman Cancer Center for Your PET/CT Scan
At UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, we provide trusted and compassionate care through a multidisciplinary approach. Our team of experts, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists, develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.
As part of the UPMC Hillman global network, our medical teams in Croatia and the U.S. work closely together to determine the best course of treatment and care for each patient. This partnership makes it possible for you to receive world-class cancer care close to home.
Expert Cancer Care and Treatment Options
In addition to PET/CT, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center offers other services to support your cancer journey, including:
Contact Us About PET/CT Services at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center
If you or your physician believe a PET/CT scan could be an important next step in your care, our experienced team is ready to help.
Contact UPMC Hillman Cancer Center to schedule your appointment or learn more about the process.
Phone: +385 (0)49 638 710
Email: info@upmc.hr
UPMC Hillman Cancer Center brings world-class cancer diagnostics and care closer to home.