Description
Why It’s Done
A Whole Body PET Scan with Contrast is commonly used for the diagnosis, staging, treatment planning, and monitoring of various conditions, especially in oncology. Typical uses include:
• Cancer detection (e.g., lung, breast, colon, lymphoma, melanoma, etc.)
• Staging of known cancers to determine the extent of spread
• Evaluating response to cancer treatment
• Detecting cancer recurrence
• Identifying unknown primary tumors
• Assessment of inflammatory or infectious diseases
• Evaluation of unexplained symptoms, such as persistent fever or weight loss
The use of contrast improves accuracy in detecting small or hard-to-identify lesions and enhances diagnostic confidence.
Preparation
1. Fasting:
• Do not eat or drink anything except plain water for 4–6 hours before the scan.
• Avoid foods high in sugar or carbohydrates the day before.
• You may be advised to follow a low-carb, high-protein diet the day prior to the test.
2. Hydration:
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated unless told otherwise.
• Good hydration helps with tracer distribution and contrast elimination.
3. Blood Sugar Levels:
• Ideal blood glucose should be below 150 mg/dL for optimal scan quality.
• Diabetic patients should discuss insulin or oral medication timing with their doctor.
4. Medications:
• Continue regular medications unless instructed otherwise.
• Bring a list of all current medications.
5. Contrast Considerations:
• Inform your doctor if you have a history of allergic reactions to contrast agents.
• Let your healthcare provider know if you have kidney problems, as contrast agents can affect kidney function.
6. Avoid Substances:
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and strenuous exercise for at least 12–24 hours before the scan.
7. Clothing & Personal Items:
• Wear comfortable, metal-free clothing (no zippers, belts, or jewelry).
• You may need to change into a hospital gown.
8. Notify Your Doctor If:
• You are pregnant, may be pregnant, or breastfeeding
• You have diabetes, kidney disease, or thyroid conditions
• You have recently undergone another imaging test involving contrast
