Whole-Body FDG PET/CT for Tumor Localization — Intravenous Contrast
A whole-body PET/CT scan using FDG radiotracer and intravenous contrast to help locate areas of abnormal metabolic activity, including tumors.
["This scan shows where cells in the body are using more glucose than expected, which may help identify and stage tumors but can require further evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 82806-1
- Short code
- PT+CT Whole body Tum loc W FDG+contr IV
- Synonyms
- PT+CT Whole body Tum loc W FDG+contr IV
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- 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
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This is a combined positron emission tomography and computed tomography (PET/CT) scan of the body. It uses fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), a radioactive tracer similar to glucose, and intravenous contrast to produce images of areas of increased metabolic activity.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this test to evaluate a known or suspected tumor, identify where cancer may have spread, assess treatment response, or investigate unexplained findings. It may also be used for evaluation of certain blood cancers.
How is the test performed?
You receive the FDG tracer through a vein, followed by intravenous contrast and then rest for a period so the tracer can circulate. You then lie on a table while the PET scanner detects radiation and the CT scanner creates detailed anatomical images. The scan usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, although total visit time is longer.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow your imaging center's instructions, which may include fasting for several hours, limiting vigorous exercise, and adjusting diabetes medicines or glucose supplements. Tell the staff about diabetes, kidney disease, prior contrast reactions, pregnancy or breastfeeding, medications, and any recent surgery or other imaging tests involving radiation.
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 that absorb more FDG than surrounding tissue appear as hotspots and may reflect a tumor, inflammation, infection, or another source of increased metabolic activity. Some cancers can have low FDG uptake, while benign conditions can appear highly active, so findings must be interpreted with your symptoms, examination, and other tests. A scan specialist and your ordering clinician will assess the images and recommend any needed follow-up.
Short name
Whole-Body FDG PET/CT
Frequently asked questions
Does this test expose me to radiation?
Will I need someone to drive me home?
What if I have diabetes?
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