PET Scan of Whole Body - Cancer Pet Ct
Detailed pet scan of whole-body. Uses contrast enhancement. Uses controlled radiation.
A PET/CT scan combines two imaging tests to find and monitor colorectal cancer. It helps doctors see where cancer is and how active it is.
Key facts at a glance
- Modality
- pet
- Body part
- whole-body
- Contrast
- iodinated
- Contrast route
- iv
- Ionizing radiation
- true
- Radiation dose
- 14
- Duration (min)
- 10
- Preparation
- fasting-4h
- Pregnancy safe
- false
- Pediatric safe
- true
- Breastfeeding safe
- true
- Claustrophobia risk
- low
- Metal implant safe
- safe
- Sedation
- none
- LOINC
- 44151-9
- Result turnaround
- 24-48h
- Availability
- routine
- Setting
- outpatient
- Cost tier
- very_high
What is a PET/CT scan?
A PET/CT scan combines a PET scan and a CT scan. The PET scan shows how tissues use sugar. Cancer cells use more sugar, so they light up on the scan. The CT scan gives detailed pictures of your body's insides.
How is it used for staging?
Staging tells how far cancer has spread. A PET/CT can show if cancer has spread to lymph nodes or other organs. This helps your doctor plan the best treatment for you.
Monitoring recurrence
After treatment, a PET/CT can help find if cancer has come back. It is often used when blood tests or symptoms suggest a possible recurrence.
What do your results mean?
Your doctor will explain the results. The scan can show areas that are bright or dark. Bright areas may mean cancer, but some normal tissues also light up. Your doctor will use all information to decide.
Risks and preparation
You will get a small amount of radioactive sugar through an IV. This is safe and leaves your body quickly. You may need to fast for a few hours before the scan. Tell your doctor about any allergies or if you are pregnant.
Most people have no side effects from the scan. The radiation exposure is low, but let your doctor know if you have had many scans. Drink plenty of water after the test to flush the tracer out.
How to read the report
- Results reviewed by radiologist.
What Is This Procedure?
This pet scan evaluates whole-body, specifically colon. Uses contrast dye to enhance visualization of internal structures. Uses controlled radiation to create detailed images.
What Does It Show?
Detailed images of colon and rectum and liver and lungs and lymph nodes. Part of the oncology system.
Common Uses
This exam is commonly used to detect abnormalities, guide treatments, and monitor known conditions.
What to Expect
The procedure takes approximately 10 minutes. You may feel a warm sensation if contrast is used.
Severe pain at procedure site
urgentWorsening severe pain with fever or other symptoms. Go to urgent care or ER.
Mild symptoms after procedure
promptMild discomfort or symptoms that don't improve. Contact your doctor.
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
emergencyDifficulty breathing, swelling, rapid heartbeat after contrast. Call 911 immediately.
Call 911 immediately
Frequently asked questions
Will a PET/CT scan hurt?
How long does the scan take?
Are there any side effects?
When will I get the results?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy