Anyone had a PET (or CT/PET) diagnostic scan after chemotherapy, rather than an MRI?

Hi BridgetHddf7f1 ,

A PET scan is useful for spotting any fast growing cells as I understand it.  I have had a PET scan after chemo but it was inconclusive which I think meant they couldn't spot any areas of cancerous cells but couldn't be definite they'd all gone.

Best wishes

Cerys

Hi BridgetHddf7f1 I’ve never had a PET scan and my only MRI was to check my liver when first diagnosed. All my scans have been CT since then x

My only MRI was part of the original diagnosis for bowel cancer.All my follow ups were CT scans

Kath

Thank you Cerys.

Thank you Kath. 

Thanks for your reply Karen.

My mum had lots of PET scans as she was a stage 4 patient . It has a different method of uptake so very good at adding more information for the drs .

It would generally be the go to if they needed to clarify some other image . 
Certainly would not be concerned as I think it gives a lot of information and surgeons actually quiet often ask for them when preparing for surgery too .

Take care ,

Court 

Hi Bridget,

I have stage IV - I regularly have CT, MRI and PET. While MRI & CT show structure, PET gives information about metabolic activity....cancer cells use more energy than normal cells, so area will 'flare' on a PET scan. Occasionally it is slightly tricky to interepret, because areas of inflammation also shows as a 'flare', so radiologist will comment accordingly. I have however had many PETs over the last 6 years, only once was it inconclusive (due to suspected inflammation in my pelvis). 

Interestingly, my last recurence did not show on CT or MRI, the PET however showed a suspicious 'flare'. So they then went and did a colonocopy and found the trouble. Bottomline - PET is a good scan, I don't think you should be worried. And bonus the actual scan time is shorter than MRI. Good luck - hope its all good news! 

Thank you so much for your comprehensive answer Babotie - v helpful and much appreciated. 

Thank you Court, for your helpful reply, which is much appreciated - and all adds to my knowledge.  Kind regards - Bridget