P ET Aids Early Detection Tulsi Sawlani, M.D., Methodist's Chief of Radiology, stresses PET scan capability as an essential component in detecting cancer at its earliest stages. PET scans will definitely enhance our ability to confirm whether cancer at one particular site in the body has metastasized or traveled to other organ systems. Our job is not over once we diagnose cancer in a specific organ. Cancer cells make their way, sometimes all too quickly, throughout the body. Cancer cells use more energy than neighboring cells.
All cells use glucose to produce energy for function.
What is crucial is having the information to determine the best possible course of treatment. Follow-up scans can show if treatment such as radiation or chemotherapy has worked. If cancer has recurred, PET helps the physician to diagnose and stage the recurrence. Dr. Sawlani points to the advantages of PET scans for physicians planning the care of their cancer patients. When and whether surgery is to be performed is an important question that needs to be answered.