Nuclear and Molecular

PET/CT study is an advanced functional imaging using specific radioactive drugs. It is widely used in the field of oncology as well other medical conditions as cardiac viability, neurological disorder, fever of unknown origin and painful orthopedic prosthesis.

The most commonly used compound in PET/CT imaging is FDG, which is analog to glucose. FDG is characterized by high accumulation in malignant cells and used in the early diagnosis and staging of cancer as well as assessment of therapy response and follow-up. FDG compound is also used in other medical conditions.

There are other radioactive compounds used in PET/CT as PSMA, which is used in the assessment of prostate cancer. PSMA can be labeled with Gallium and more recently with Fluorine. Fluorine-PSMA is a cyclotron product compared to Gallium which is laboratory product. Thus Fluorine-PSMA is more pure, highly sensitive and specific and gives a superior images. Alfa scan can provide PSMA in Gallium and Fluorine labeling.

Another compound available in alfa scan is DOTATATE, which is used in cases with neuroendocrine tumors.

PET/CT imaging depends on scanning the radioactive compound from the body, that is why it is crucial to give enough time and appropriate dose to patients. In Alfa scan we follow the international guidelines and the highest standard to ensure the best imaging quality. Our medical reports are generated by a committee of internationally recognized radiologists and nuclear medicine physicians. To ensure the best medical service, all our scanners are regularly updated form the biggest medical technology companies to have Hi-resolution, Hi-definition and DR studies.

Contraindications

Pregnancy
Uncontrolled high blood sugar levels
If treating physician requested
Contrast CT and the creatinine level is high

Preparations

Fasting for 6 hours
Ensure blood glucose level below 180 mg/dL
Normal creatinine level

The Study

PET/CT study is a combined exam
of PET part imaged about 1 hour after administration of the radioactive drugs and a CT scan, in most cases performed after injection of contrast material

After Care

Good hydration is advised after the exam.
The amount of radioactive drug is small, however, it is advised to avoid close contact with children and pregnant women for the rest of the exam day.
If the scan is demanded for nursing mother despite breastfeeding, milk should be collected and discarded for 6 hours after the scan.

Reservation is required for PET/CT studies as the Radioactive drugs should be ordered one day before the test.

PET/CT exam is available in Mohandiseen, Helioples, Maadi and New cairo branches.

Nuclear and Molecular