ChatGPT
A PET scan, or Positron Emission Tomography, is a sophisticated imaging technique utilized in medicine to visualize metabolic processes within the body. It involves the administration of a small amount of radioactive material, known as a radiotracer, which is typically injected into the bloodstream. As the radiotracer travels through the body, it emits positrons, which collide with electrons, producing gamma rays. These gamma rays are detected by a specialized scanner, which generates detailed 3D images of the internal structures.PET scans are particularly valuable in the diagnosis, staging, and monitoring of various diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, and heart disease. In oncology, PET scans can pinpoint areas of abnormal cellular activity, aiding in the detection of tumors and metastases.