What should you know about NAF PET scans?

NAF is a fluorine-labelled tracer that behaves like a mineral taken up by active bone. After it is injected into a vein, a [PET-CT Scanner](/technology/pet-ct-scanner/) detects the tracer and creates images; the CT part helps locate findings in the body. Increased uptake can have several causes, including healing, inflammation, arthritis, injury, or cancer, so a bright area is not a diagnosis by itself.

Your clinician may request this test when assessing possible bone involvement or clarifying findings from another scan. It is different from an FDG study because the tracers follow different biological processes. Ask what clinical question the scan is intended to answer and whether another test is needed to interpret an uncertain area.

Follow the imaging centre's instructions about eating, drinking, medicines, and arrival time. Tell staff if you are pregnant, might be pregnant, are breastfeeding, have kidney problems, or need help lying still. Wear comfortable clothing without metal when advised. After the injection, drink fluids and use the bathroom as directed unless your team has given different advice. The scan itself requires you to remain still while images are collected.

Tell staff immediately about wheezing, facial swelling, dizziness, or feeling faint after the injection. Once home, seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty or collapse. Contact the imaging centre for persistent pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site, and follow its specific advice about close contact with infants or pregnant people after the scan.

What question is this NAF PET scan meant to answer? How should I prepare, and when will the report be available? Could arthritis, an injury, or treatment affect the images? Will I need another scan or a biopsy if a finding is unclear?