Understanding Positron Emission Tomography (PET): How It Works, Uses, and Benefits in Modern Medicine
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a cutting-edge nuclear imaging technique that provides detailed insights into how the body’s organs and tissues function. Unlike traditional imaging methods such as X-rays or CT scans that show structure, PET scans reveal biochemical and metabolic activity — helping doctors detect disease at its earliest stages, often before physical changes appear.
This makes PET an essential tool in oncology, neurology, cardiology, and other branches of modern medicine.
What Is Positron Emission Tomography (PET)?
A PET scan is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a small amount of radioactive tracer (radiopharmaceutical) to measure biological processes. These tracers mimic natural molecules (like glucose or oxygen) and emit positrons as they decay. When these positrons interact with electrons in the body, they produce gamma rays that are detected by the PET scanner.
The…