Because an MRI scan uses a magnet and does not use X-ray or particle beams, an MRI scan produces no ionizing radiation.

PET (positron emission tomography) is a medical imaging technology that uses short-lived radionuclide tracers that are injected in a vein. The most common tracer used is a form of sugar. This is taken up by certain cells; especially cancer cells, but also in normal brain cells and normal heart muscle. This imaging technique is very sensitive for finding certain types of cancers and following their response to treatment.

If you are under a physician's care, you should follow your physician's recommendations for the frequency of having a PET scan. Typically, it is suggested that you have a follow-up scan at least every five years. Regardless of how advanced science becomes, however, it should be noted that a PET scan cannot replace the benefits of a clinical exam and evaluation performed by your physician.

Because the radioisotope used in a PET scan is short- lived, the amount of radiation exposure the patient receives is the same as from two chest X-rays.

No. DITI detects and records the infrared heat radiating from the surface of the body. There is no contact with the body nor harmful radiation.

Amounts of radiation released into the environment are measured in units called curies. However, the dose of radiation that a person receives is measured in units called rem. Radiation Emergency Assistance Center/Training Site of Oak Ridge Associated Universities: Radiation Accident Management

There are different factors that will determine the answer to this question. Some cases require additional tests be performed before an appropriate treatment plan can be developed. For some cases the owners want more time to make their decision, and therefore are not ready to begin treatment. And in other cases, after discussing and accepting a treatment plan the owner is ready to begin treatment and may select to begin treatment immediately.

No, there are no side effects to having a PET scan performed. The only pain involved is the needle prick when you receive the radiopharmaceutical injection and it doesn't differ from any other type of injection you might receive in its "pain quotient."

You will have a small injection of a radioactive substance. The injection enables the PET scanner to produce a picture which reveals important information and will assist the research team to learn more about your condition or treatment. What’s the difference between a PET scan and other imaging tests, such as CT and MRI? PET is a way of imaging how the body is functioning; this is different to CT and MRI, which are used to visualize the structure of the body.

The only pain involved is the needle prick when you receive the radiopharmaceutical injection which does not differ from any other type of injection.

Patients should also bring all previous studies, including CT and/orn MR films and reports, as well as their chemotherapy history, including date of most recent treatment, with them. Patients must fast overnight prior to a PET scan. Afternoon patients may eat a light meal six hours prior to exam. Patients should drink water before beginning fast and drink lots of water after beginning fast. Continue to hydrate. Oncology patients must fast overnight, or at least 6 hours prior to PET scan.