Written By: Dr. Preeti Singh
Consultant - Nuclear Medicine PET/CT
Sohana Hospital, Mohali.
Experience: 12+ Years
Published: August 14, 2025
Last Updated: August 14, 2025
Many people think of cancer when they hear PET Scan, and truthfully, it is because of the name and reputation this diagnostic test has achieved in the detection of cancer. However, this diagnostic test has many uses other than cancer diagnosis. Positron Emission Tomography (PET) combined with Computed Tomography (CT) scan is a state-of-the-art diagnostic test in identifying and finding the stages of cancer. Other than cancer diagnosis, it is quite effective at diagnosing other physical ailments of the body. In this article, we are going to discuss in detail the PET ct scan near me and its uses for purposes outside of oncology.
What exactly is a PET scan?
A PET scan, or Positron Emission Tomography, is a test used to produce images of the internal organs in real time, which helps provide an idea of the functioning of those internal organs. PET involves an injectable, safe, small amount of radioactive material known as a tracer. The PET scanner then images the organs or cells that uptake significant amounts of the radiotracer and that could indicate a potential health issue. The PET scan is a commonly performed diagnostic scan across the world to assess and diagnose conditions and types of cancer, and monitor the treatment progress. Besides cancer, PET scans are beneficial to assess conditions involving the brain and heart.
What differentiates a PET Scan from CT and MRI?
The main differentiation between a PET scan in Mohali and a CT or MRI scan is that the PET scan can show the functioning of the tissues and organs in real-time, whereas the CT scan uses X-rays and the MRI uses magnets and radio waves, which only show images of the tissues. It is simpler to evaluate the functioning because the PET scan creates real-time images. Some hospitals are now using combined PET-CT scans, which can create three-dimensional images.
What is a PET scan used for?
Cancer Detection and Staging: A PET scan is frequently used within the field of oncology for cancer detection, accurate localization, and determination if it has metastasized. It is also important for assessing treatment efficacy with scans before, during, and after therapy. Some common cancers detected are those of the lung, breast, colorectal, lymphoma, and melanoma.
Cardiovascular Disease: We can utilize PET ct scan to help diagnose coronary artery disease, assess myocardial viability, determine the extent of damage after a heart attack, and areas of the heart that can benefit from angioplasty or bypass.
Neurologic Disorders: We can also utilize a PET-CT scan to help detect brain tumors, dementia, and determine which areas in the brain are functioning abnormally during diseases such as epilepsy.
Other Issues: PET scans may be used for other issues as well; not only to detect cancer and cardiovascular diseases, but also inflammatory conditions, infections, metabolism, and viability of tissues, the specific area of infection, etc.
If you are looking for the best PET scan hospital near me or the best PET ct scan in chandigarh, Sohana Hospital might just be the right option for you. Sohana Hospital Mohali is home to the world’s most advanced technology and North India’s most trusted oncologists and nuclear medicine specialists who provide the most comprehensive cancer care and PET-CT scan facilities to the patients in the region. Book your appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier, hopeful life!
Why would a doctor want a PET scan?
A doctor orders a PET scan to check how tissues and organs are functioning at a cellular and metabolic level, rather than just looking at their physical structure.
How can Sohana hospital help with a PET scan?
Sohana Hospital has a wide range of treatment for all diseases related to the diseases diagnosed by PET scan. Their expert set of doctors and medical professionals can give you the exact treatment you need to have in order to be healthy.
What are the side effects of a PET scan?
PET scans are generally safe, but minor side effects like mild pain or bruising at the injection site can occur. Common Mild Side Effects sharp pinprick or cold sensation in the arm when the radiotracer is injected, feeling tired after the procedure, often due to fasting or the waiting period.
What should I avoid after a PET scan?
You should avoid close contact with pregnant women and young children for a few hours after a PET scan. Avoid holding, cuddling, or prolonged close contact with pregnant individuals, babies, and children under age 18 for a few hours.
What is the next step after a PET scan?
The immediate next steps after a PET scan involve physical recovery, waiting for the radiologist's report, and discussing the findings with a PET Scan physician or oncologist. They can help you understand what’s the best way to deal with recovery after a PET scan.
Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Preeti Singh
Sohana Hospital, Mohali.
Last Updated:
Credentials of the Reviewer:
-DM Nuclear Medicine PET/CT
-12+ Years of Clinical Experience
Nuclear Medicine & PET CT
SOHANA HOSPITAL