PET / CT Scan
PET (positron emission tomography) scans provide specific information about organ and cell functioning by distinguishing among healthy, diseased and dead tissue; CT scans provide a detailed picture of the body's internal anatomy. Merit Health Biloxi's PET/CT scanning technology combines the physiological information from a PET scan and the anatomical information from a CT scan to provide an image of the body in a single scan.
PET/CT imaging is primarily used to diagnose cancer and evaluate treatment by providing:
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Information about cellular activity to help doctors distinguish between benign and malignant tumors.
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A single, full-body scan that reveals where cancer exists.
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Evidence of cellular changes - which can be seen much earlier than structural changes - to allow doctors to evaluate treatments earlier and make necessary modifications.
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More accurate information to detect recurrence. PET/CT scans can provide clear images of tumors that are often obscured by scar tissue (from surgery or radiation) when using other imaging techniques.
Once the total scan has been performed, you may resume daily activity. Drink plenty of water after your scan is complete.
Consult your physician prior to your PET/CT scan if:
- You are or may be pregnant
- You are allergic to any food or drugs
- You are currently being treated for infection
- You are unsure if you should take your medications
- You have had recent radiation therapy
PET/CT service is available each Tuesday morning at Merit Health Biloxi. The service is available from 8 a.m. to Noon. For more information, give us a call at (228) 436-1234.