Positron Emission Tomography (PET)

Overview of Methodology

production of positron emitting isotope in a cyclotron
chemistry of labeling compound with positron emitter and preparing compound in a form suitable for administration in humans
transport of labeled compound from chemistry group to camera group
administration (injection) of tracer compound & data acquisition with PET camera
processing of data from PET camera to extract information related to the tracer's kinetics in the body
interpretation of result


Case Study 2

History
A 64 year-old male who was found to have serum CEA elevation for 16 months after resection of colon carcinoma.
Original Diagnosis
Endoscopy with biopsy demonstrated recurrence at the site of anastamosis at the hepatic flexure. CT of the abdomen and pelvis showed no abnormality.
PET Findings
Preoperative PET scan showed a new abnormal focus in the mediastinum and two on the lumbar spine (left image), and a focus in left lobe of the liver and two in the left chest wall (right image).
Change in Treatment
The findings indicate local recurrence and metastatic disease to the liver, mediastinum, and skeleton. This patient will have to be placed in chemotherapy in addition to any surgery planned.

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