Does a PET-CT scan treat lymphoma?

PET-CT combines a CT image with information from a tracer that collects more in some active tissues. In lymphoma, this can help map involved lymph nodes or organs and show the distribution of disease. Infection and inflammation can also appear active, so the scan is interpreted alongside symptoms, examination, and biopsy results.

A scan may be used before treatment to establish the extent of lymphoma, during care when the team needs specific information, or afterward to assess changes. It is not a substitute for treatment such as medicines, radiotherapy, or another approach chosen for the lymphoma type and your circumstances.

Follow the centre’s instructions about food, drink, medicines, and activity before arriving. Tell the team about diabetes, pregnancy, breastfeeding, allergies, and any difficulty staying still. Wear comfortable clothing and allow time for the tracer to circulate and for imaging to be completed.

Ask the oncology team what the scan is checking and how its findings will affect the next step. Keep copies of earlier reports when attending a comparison scan. A change on the image is considered with the treatment timing and laboratory or biopsy information, rather than used alone to decide whether lymphoma is active.

Tell staff immediately if you develop itching, swelling, dizziness, or breathing difficulty after a tracer or contrast medicine. Seek emergency care for collapse, severe breathing trouble, or rapidly worsening swelling. Outside the scan appointment, contact your lymphoma team urgently for high fever, confusion, severe weakness, or symptoms that worsen quickly.

Is this PET-CT for staging, treatment planning, or response assessment? Which areas are you monitoring? Could infection or inflammation affect the result? When will we review the report, and what finding would change my treatment?