Positron Emission Tomography (PET)

PET scanning creates images of the human body from positrons emitted by radioactive compounds that are dispersed throughout tissues. The radioactive compounds, called tracers, are usually administered intravenously and accumulate to varying degrees throughout the body. Their presence and concentration provide information about tissue function and often tissue type.  PET scans provide functional information, unlike the imaging modalities x-ray, CT and MR scanning, which provide anatomic detail. Homework and lab activities focus on the following topics: 

Doctors and researchers use a variety of imaging devices to get a look inside the body.  These static images can provide great details of tissues and organs but are unable to give insight into metabolic activity.  In this YouTube video series, OHSU’s Dr. Jeanne Link explains the advantages of PET and how it is different from other imaging modalities.  She describes how researchers are able to use radionuclides to help understand a patient’s physiology as well as identify a range of conditions including cancer, heart disease, and brain disorders.