PET-CT scans combine positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT) to provide detailed images of bodily functions and structures, aiding in cancer detection, staging, and therapy planning. In this blog explores key types of PET-CT scans and associated therapies, highlighting their precision in modern diagnostics.                                           

PET-CT Fundamentals

PET-CT scans detect metabolic activity using radioactive tracers injected into the body, which “light up” areas of high cellular activity like tumors. The CT component adds anatomical detail, creating fused 3D images for accurate localization. These scans excel in oncology, cardiology, and neurology by revealing disease processes invisible to standard X-rays or MRIs.                                                 

FDG PET-CT Scan                                                                             

The most common type, FDG PET-CT uses fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), a glucose analog that accumulates in cancer cells due to their high metabolism. It stages cancers like lymphoma, lung, breast, and colorectal by identifying primary tumors, lymph node involvement, and metastases. Beyond oncology, it diagnoses infections, inflammation, or heart viability by assessing glucose uptake in affected tissues.

PSMA PET-CT Scan                                                                         

Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET-CT targets PSMA proteins on prostate cancer cells, offering superior sensitivity for detecting small metastases in bones or lymph nodes missed by conventional scans. It’s ideal for initial staging in high-risk cases and recurrence detection via rising PSA levels. This scan guides precise radiation or surgery, changing treatment plans in up to 30-50% of cases.            

DOTA and DOPA PET-CT                                               

DOTA PET-CT (e.g., DOTATATE or DOTATOC) images neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) by binding somatostatin receptors overexpressed on these cells. It evaluates disease extent, predicts therapy response, and outperforms older octreotide scans with better resolution. DOPA PET-CT, using F-18 DOPA, targets amino acid transport in NETs or Parkinson’s disease, complementing FDG when tumors are low-metabolism.​                                                              

Specialized PET-CT Types

F-18 Bone PET-CT assesses bone metastases in cancers like breast or prostate, rivaling bone scintigraphy with higher specificity. FAPI PET-CT uses fibroblast activation protein tracers for fibrotic tumors (e.g., pancreatic, peritoneal), highlighting stromal changes. Amyloid PET-CT detects brain plaques in Alzheimer’s, while Cardiac PET-CT evaluates myocardial blood flow and viability.        

Theranostic Therapies

PET-CT enables theranostics—using the same tracers for imaging and treatment. Lu-177 PSMA therapy treats PSMA-positive prostate cancer by delivering radiation to tumors, sparing healthy tissue; pre-scan PSMA PET-CT confirms eligibility and dosimetry. Lu-177 DOTATATE (PRRT) targets NETs via somatostatin receptors, improving survival with low toxicity; companion DOTA PET-CT monitors efficacy

Procedure Overview                                                                     

Patients fast for 4-6 hours before tracer injection, then rest 45-60 minutes for uptake. Scanning lasts 15-30 minutes in a quiet room; hydration and voiding reduce radiation exposure. Side effects are minimal—tracer radiation decays quickly—but pregnant individuals avoid it.

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Clinical Impact                                                                 

These scans shift management: FDG detects recurrence earlier, PSMA redefines radiotherapy fields, and theranostics offer personalized care. In India, rising cancer rates (e.g., 1.5 million new cases yearly) amplify their role in resource-limited settings for cost-effective precision.                                                      

At KK Swara Healthcare Super specialty Hospital, patients in Uppal, Hyderabad gain access to these advanced PET-CT types and theranostic therapies through state-of-the-art nuclear medicine facilities. Our expert team integrates FDG, PSMA, and DOTA scans with Lu-177 treatments, ensuring precise diagnostics and tailored care close to home for oncology needs.​