Can PET Scan Detect All Types of Cancer? A Detailed Insight
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Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans have become the gold standard for evaluating cancer in the modern era. They offer functional imaging that reveals not just where tumors are, but how active they are redefining cancer diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. But can a PET scan for cancer truly detect every type, and what are its strengths and limitations? What Is a PET Scan and How Does It Work? A PET scan for cancer involves injecting a radioactive sugar (tracer) into the bloodstream. Cancer cells, known for their rapid growth, absorb more of this tracer, lighting up on the scan and revealing size, activity, and spread throughout the body. PET/CT and PET/MRI combine functional imaging with detailed anatomical data for unparalleled accuracy. Key Strengths Detects active cancer sites even before structural changes occur. Assesses the entire body in one scan for metastasis. Monitors treatment response and detects recurrences. Does PET Scan Detect All Types of Cancer? Myth...