FDG PET/CT for Vertebral and Thigh Tumor Localization — Without Contrast
An FDG PET/CT scan used to locate metabolically active tumors in the spine and thigh without iodinated contrast.
["This scan combines PET imaging of glucose activity with CT images to help locate and assess tumors."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 82807-9
- Short code
- PT+CT Vert-thigh Tum loc W FDG+WO contr
- Synonyms
- PT+CT Vert-thigh Tum loc W FDG+WO contr
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- pt-ct
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This is a positron emission tomography and computed tomography (PET/CT) scan that uses fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), a radioactive tracer, to help locate tumors in the vertebral and thigh regions. CT provides detailed anatomical images, while PET shows areas of increased tracer activity. This version is performed without iodinated contrast.
Why might I need this test?
It may be used to find an unknown tumor, determine the extent of a known tumor, guide biopsy or surgery, or check for additional sites of disease. It can also help evaluate treatment response or clarify whether suspicious tissue is more likely to represent a tumor.
How is the test performed?
A small IV dose of FDG is given, followed by a resting period while the tracer circulates and is taken up by tissues. You then lie on a table while the PET scanner and CT scanner collect images over the area of interest. The scan may take from about 30 minutes to more than an hour, depending on the protocol.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the imaging center's instructions, which may include avoiding strenuous activity for a day or two and fasting for several hours before the scan. Tell the staff if you have diabetes, recently taken insulin, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have had a recent surgery or infection, because these factors can affect image quality. Avoid unnecessary movement and follow the staff's instructions during the resting and scanning periods.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Areas of increased FDG uptake may indicate a metabolically active tumor, but they can also occur with inflammation, infection, or other benign conditions. Uptake helps determine the location and extent of suspicious disease but does not by itself establish the exact diagnosis. Low uptake does not exclude every tumor, and findings should be interpreted with the scan images, your symptoms, and other tests.
Short name
FDG PET/CT tumor localization
Frequently asked questions
Does this PET/CT use contrast?
Why do I need to rest before the scan?
Can an abnormal PET/CT result prove that I have cancer?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy