Pet Scan

Ceesun · 09-02-2006, 06:35 PM

Hi Again, Am looking for clarification on this issue. When I had my first pet-ct scan this past June 30th, the tech told me the pet begins about at the eyebrow line then down to the lower legs. She said it even takes in a part of the brain, I am assuming behind the eyebrows-what is the difference then with a Pet and a MRI of the brain? Is the MRI more extensive? My oncologist has never ordered one for me as yet-thanks Ceesun AKA Cathy

tousled1 · 09-02-2006, 08:26 PM

My PET/CT scans take position emission tomography images from the skull base to mid-thigh. Although both my PET/CT scan said there is no abnormal FDG uptake in the head or neck. A PET/CT scan checks your entire body, including bones, organs and bone marrow. An MRI of the brain just looks at the brain. Hope this helps.

Sherryg683 · 09-02-2006, 09:18 PM

From what I undestand

Sherryg683 · 09-02-2006, 09:22 PM

Sorry, my message got cut off. From what I understand an MRI of the brain is more sensitive than a PET would be. It can pick up smaller lesions and some the PET might miss. A normal PET/CT starts at the skull base and does not do a brain scan. I would ask your Dr. for an MRI. I had one done a few months ago at my request..sherryg683