Radiology Practice Test 2025 - Free Radiology Practice Questions and Study Guide

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans are primarily utilized in the evaluation of cancer and monitoring treatment responses. This imaging technique works by detecting gamma rays emitted from a radiotracer that is introduced into the body. Cancerous cells typically have a higher metabolic rate compared to normal cells, which allows the PET scan to reveal areas of abnormal activity that may indicate the presence of tumors.

After a patient undergoes treatment for cancer, PET scans are also instrumental in assessing the effectiveness of therapies. The scans can help determine whether cancer is responding to treatment, remains unchanged, or has progressed, which is critical for guiding further therapeutic decisions. This ability to visualize metabolic activity rather than just anatomical structure sets PET scans apart from other imaging modalities, making them invaluable in oncology.

While evaluations of muscle injuries, bone density, or gastrointestinal disorders may involve different imaging techniques such as MRIs, CT scans, or ultrasounds, they do not utilize the functional imaging capabilities inherent to PET scans that are specific to detecting and monitoring cancer.