Positron emission tomography (PET) uses small amounts of radioactive materials called radiotracers or radiopharmaceuticals, a special camera and a computer to evaluate organ and tissue functions. By identifying changes at the cellular level, PET may detect the early onset of disease before other imaging tests can.

Tell your doctor if there is any possibility you are pregnant or you are breastfeeding. Your doctor will tell you how to prepare based on the type of your exam. Discuss any recent illnesses, medical conditions, medications you are taking and allergies – especially to contrast material. Your doctor will likely tell you not to eat anything and to drink only water for several hours before your scan.