Positron emission tomography (PET) is a nuclear medical imaging technique which produces a three-dimensional image of functional processes in the body.

PET scans are used most often to detect cancer. PET can detect and stage most cancers. Heart PET scan can be used to determine blood flow to the heart muscle and help evaluate signs of coronary artery disease. PET scan of the brain is used to evaluate patients who have neurological disorders: brain tumor, memory disorders or seizure disorders.

PET imaging is most useful in combination with anatomical imaging, such as CT. For this reason modern PET scanners are now available with integrated CT scanners.

PET is usually done on an outpatient basis. It is non-invasive procedure, but it does involve exposure to ionizing radiation. Radiation exposure is very low. Radioactive substance decays quickly and is effective for a short period of time.

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