PET scan is the abbreviation for positron emission tomography, and CT scan is the abbreviation for computed tomography. PET and CT scan is the radiologic examination utilized for detection of disease within the body. PET scan is a more sophisticated and advanced scan that utilizes radioactive tracer for the identification of abnormalities in the body whereas CT scan utilizes X-rays for identifying abnormalities. It produces 3D images of the tissues or abnormal region to identify abnormalities. Both the tests can be employed for detection of cancers in any region of the body, though a PET scan can identify the abnormality at the cellular level. The cancer gets identified at an early stage easily through this process, which can be treated well at the initial stages.
What is a PET scan?
PET is the abbreviation of Positron Emission Tomography, which is a detection procedure for detecting abnormalities at the cellular level. It is a sophisticated procedure that utilizes radioactive tracer to detect abnormalities in the body. The radioactive tracer may cause allergic reactions in some patients, and it should be safe to undergo serum creatinine test before undergoing a PET scan.
What is a CT scan?
CT scan is the abbreviated form of Computed Tomography, a diagnostic test for detection of body abnormalities. CT employs motorized X-ray in association with a computer to generate cross-sectional 3D pictures of body parts or of the abnormality. This aids in the simple identification of abnormality and facilitates the early treatment of the condition. The test is applied to reveal bones, organs, soft tissues, joints, tumors, etc.
PET Scan Vs CT Scan
Using a PET Scan (Positron Emission Tomography) is functionally based because it reports metabolic and functional tissue activity. It uses a radioactive tracer such as FDG or I-131 which can tell you whether or not abnormality exists at a cellular level. For this reason, it is often utilized for detecting cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiological issues. While a PET scan gives essential information about tissue function, it provides significantly less anatomical information than the CT scan.
A PET scan will generally take 2–3 hours of uptake time for the tracer to incorporate, meaning there is also a fair amount of expense, given the cost of the radiotracer and overall complexity of acquiring the scan. The use of PET is often combined with CT imaging (PET-CT) to enhance value to the diagnostic process. A PET scan is still primarily housed in imaging facilities.
In contrast, a CT Scan (Computed Tomography) serves structural imaging and delivers high-quality images of anatomical structures (organs, bones, tissues). CT scanners allow rapid study with X-rays – with an optional iodinated contrast dye available, to easily evaluate fractures, tumors, and internal bleeding. CT scans are faster, taking about 10–30 minutes, and offer more economical alternatives compared to PET scans. CT scans are available in most medical diagnostic centers and hospitals and can be done standalone or in conjunction with PET or MRI if greater detail is required in the diagnostic process.
What is the Cost of a PET scan?
The price of a PET scan is different based on location and healthcare provider. The cost of a PET scan is between INR 12000 to INR 45000 in Delhi NCR.
What is the Cost of a CT scan?
The price of a CT scan is different based on location and healthcare provider. The cost of a CT scan is between INR 1500 to INR 12000 in Delhi NCR.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the full form of PET scan?
The full form of PET is Positron Emission Tomography
Q. What is the full form of CT scan?
The full form of CT is Computed Tomography
Q. Can a PET scan detect tumors in the body?
Yes, a PET scan can detect tumors in the body
Q. Can a CT scan detect tumors in the body?
Yes, CT scans detect tumors in the body
Q. Where to get a PET scan in Delhi NCR?
Patients can choose best diagnostic and imaging centres in Delhi NCR through carebox for any kind of PET scan at reasonable prices and best results.