PET/CT Scan at University of Colorado Hospital

What is a PET/CT Scan?

Positron Emission Tomography/Computerized Tomography (PET/CT) is an imaging test that produces high resolution pictures of the body’s functions and structures. A standard CT scan mainly shows the body’s anatomy such as organs and body structure. A PET scan shows biological functions such as metabolism. By combining these two types of images, doctors are better able to see abnormalities and identify cancer, heart disease and brain disorders.

PET/CT Scans and Cancer

PET/CT is believed to be the most accurate imaging test available to evaluate a number of different kinds of cancer including:

PET                  CT                      PET/CT

  • lung cancer
  • colon cancer
  • breast cancer
  • skin cancer
  • lymphoma
  • head and neck cancer
  • esophageal cancer

PET/CT is approximately 90% accurate in detecting many of these cancer types. Early diagnosis is crucial when it comes to cancer. If found early, it can often be cured. A PET/CT scan can help doctors decide on the best method of treatment.

PET/CT Scans and Brain Disorders

PET/CT is proving to be valuable in evaluating brain disorders such as:

  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Epilepsy
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Stroke evaluation
  • Brain Tumors

PET/CT is able to show abnormalities of the brain that may go undetected on an MRI or CT alone.

PET/CT Scans and Heart Disease

PET/CT may be used to detect coronary heart disease and help evaluate the state of the heart before surgery or after an attack.

Location of PET/CT Scan at University of Colorado Hospital

University of Colorado Hospital
Anschutz Medical Campus
Anschutz Outpatient Pavilion (AOP), 1st Floor
Suite 1300
1635 North Ursula Street
Aurora, CO 80010

To make an appointment call (720) 848-1200

Nuclear Medicine Team at University of Colorado Hospital

Board Certified Nuclear Medicine Physicians – a doctor that specializes in performing and interpreting PET/CT exams to diagnose diseases.

Board Certified Nuclear Medicine Technologists – work under the direction of a Radiologist to perform diagnostic test using radiation technology

Additional PET Scan Resources

For more information about PET/CT please visit the following sites:

University of Colorado Hospital  PET/CT site

PET Scan Info