FDG PET is an advanced medical imaging technique that uses a radiopharmaceutical called fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) to evaluate metabolic activity in the body’s tissues. FDG is a molecule similar to glucose that accumulates in areas with high metabolic activity. This study allows for the detection of functional abnormalities before they are visible in other imaging tests.
What is this test for?
FDG-PET is mainly used for:
Inflammation and infections: To detect active inflammatory or infectious processes in the body.
Oncology: Diagnosis, staging, and follow-up of various types of cancer, such as lymphomas, lung, breast, and colon cancer, among others.
Neurology: Evaluation of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease and other parkinsonisms, epilepsies, and brain disorders.
Cardiology: To identify areas of ischemia or cardiac damage in patients with coronary disease.
Benefits of the high technology of FDG PET
FDG-PET uses a radiopharmaceutical (FDG) that is administered intravenously. FDG is distributed throughout the body and accumulates in areas with high metabolic activity. The PET scanner detects the radiation emitted by the FDG and generates three-dimensional images that show the areas of highest metabolic uptake.
What is the procedure like?
The FDG PET procedure involves:
Preparation:
Generally, you will need to fast for 4 to 6 hours before the exam, but check with your doctor to confirm. It is recommended to drink water before the study. Be sure to inform your doctor if you are taking any medication, if you are pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding. Also, wear comfortable clothing without any metal elements.
During the test:
During the test, FDG will be administered intravenously. After the injection, you will need to rest for approximately 30 to 60 minutes to allow the radiopharmaceutical to distribute throughout the body. After this time, you will be asked to lie on the PET scanner gurney while the images are taken. It is essential that you remain still during the study to ensure image quality. The total duration of the procedure, including preparation and image acquisition, is approximately 2 hours.
After the test:
After the procedure, you can resume your normal activities, unless your doctor indicates otherwise. It is recommended that you drink plenty of water to help eliminate the radiopharmaceutical from your body. The results of the FDG-PET will be analyzed by a specialized radiologist and sent to your doctor, who will explain the findings and, if necessary, recommend the appropriate treatment.
Recommendations for the test
If you have diabetes, it is important to inform your doctor so they can adjust specific recommendations related to glucose control before the exam. During the procedure, you must remain as still as possible to ensure the images are accurate. Also, follow all instructions given by your doctor before, during, and after the procedure.
Are there any risks?
FDG-PET is a safe procedure, but there are some minimal risks:
Radiation exposure: FDG emits a small amount of radiation, but the dose is low and considered safe.
Allergic reactions (rare): In exceptional cases, allergic reactions to the radiopharmaceutical may occur.
Mild discomfort: You may experience discomfort at the injection site.
To ensure your test goes smoothly, we ask that you arrive before the scheduled time. This will allow us to complete the necessary administrative and clinical preparation.
Before the test, we will give you the Informed Consent, a document with important information that you must read and sign.
If your appointment is for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), it is crucial that you inform us about the presence of pacemakers, metal objects, prostheses (including dental ones), tattoos, or medication infusion devices, such as insulin pumps.
These diagnostic tests are very safe, but as with any medical procedure, there is a minimal possibility of an incident.
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