Role of Positron Emission Tomography (PET) in clinical set up

Positron emission tomography, PET is the new non-invasive molecular imaging technique in clinical medicine that allows the physician to examine the heart, brain and other organs. PET gives images based on the detection of subatomic particles that are emitted from a radioactive substance (radiopharmaceutical) given to the patient. PET imaging is unique in that it shows the functioning of organs and tissues, while other imaging techniques - such as X-ray and CT - show structure. PET is useful modality for detection of cancer, coronary artery disease and several brain diseases and disorders. It provides information about the metabolic activities of tumors and reveals metabolic changes that may occur with the treatment.