What should you know about a myeloma PET scan?

A PET scan uses an injected FDG radiotracer that cells absorb in different amounts. The PET images can highlight areas of increased activity, while the CT part shows their position and the structure of nearby bones and tissues. Together, these images may help a specialist look for myeloma-related bone changes, assess disease distribution, and compare findings over time.

The scan is one part of an assessment. Blood tests, urine tests, bone marrow testing, symptoms, and earlier images may change how the result is understood. Bright activity is not automatically cancer; inflammation and other processes can also affect tracer uptake.

Follow the imaging centre’s instructions about eating, drinking, medicines, and activity. Tell the team if you have diabetes, might be pregnant, are breastfeeding, have difficulty lying still, or have previously reacted to imaging contrast. Wear comfortable clothing and remove metal items when asked.

After the injection, you usually rest quietly before scanning. The scan itself requires you to lie still, and the CT portion may involve contrast depending on the reason for imaging. Ask when and how the result will be discussed rather than trying to interpret the pictures yourself.

Contact the imaging team promptly if you develop rash, swelling, breathing difficulty, severe dizziness, or persistent vomiting after the injection or contrast. Seek urgent medical help for sudden weakness, new loss of bladder or bowel control, severe back pain, or inability to move a limb, because these symptoms need rapid assessment regardless of the scan appointment.

Ask what the scan is intended to answer, whether contrast will be used, how preparation changes with diabetes, and which findings would alter your treatment plan. You can also ask how this scan will be compared with blood or bone marrow results.