What drug is used for a PET scan?

FDG stands for fluorodeoxyglucose. It is given through a vein and is taken up by cells that use glucose. The PET camera detects the tracer's signal, while CT supplies detailed information about location and body structure. Areas that take up more FDG are not automatically cancer: infection, inflammation, healing, and normal organ function can also affect uptake. The radiologist interprets the pattern with your history and other images.

The exact tracer and scan protocol can vary with the clinical question. A PET-CT may be used when assessing Lymphoma, investigating Cancer of Unknown Primary, or evaluating a known cancer. The tracer is different from a cancer treatment; it helps create diagnostic images.

Tell the team about diabetes, medicines, pregnancy, breastfeeding, allergies, recent illness, and difficulties with veins. Follow their instructions about fasting, water, and avoiding strenuous activity. After injection, rest quietly so muscle activity does not add avoidable signals to the images. The department will explain whether you should drink fluids and how to follow local radiation-safety advice after leaving. Keep the appointment team informed if preparation was not possible.

Ask the department for advice before the appointment if you have diabetes or cannot follow the preparation plan. Seek urgent care after the injection for difficulty breathing, widespread swelling, fainting, or severe symptoms that are getting worse. Mild injection-site discomfort should still be reported if it persists or concerns you, while the imaging service can advise about the expected course.

Which tracer will be used and why? How should I manage my diabetes medicines and food beforehand? Do pregnancy or breastfeeding change the plan? What should I do after the scan, and when will the images be interpreted?