PET Scan Essay

Chapter 1 essay In this essay i will talk about the different X-RAYs and scans many doctors use today to diagnose patients over the years. Through todays technology we are able to look at the many different reasons why we use the types of tests to properly diagnose patients.

The first scan is a CT scan, which is “A computerized tomography scan”. It combines a series of X-Ray images taken from different angles and uses computer processing to create cross-sectional images or slices of the bones, blood vessels and soft tissue in the body. A CT scan provides more information then a regular X-Ray would. This scan is typically used when you need more information then what the typical X-Ray provides.

It typically uses radio active drug/tracer to show this activity. The tracer is typically injected, swallowed, or inhaled depending on which organ(s) is being studied by the PET scan. PET scans are used when revealing or evaluating several conditions which include: cancers, heart diseases and brain cancers. PET scans provide information different from that uncovered by other types of scans. Cancer shows up as bright spots on PET scans, because they have a higher metabolic rate than normal cells. The only health risk associated with this particular scan is related to the tracer. It may cause a major allergic reaction, which is rare in many cases. It exposes your unborn baby ( if pregnant) to radiation. If your breast feeding, it may expose your child to radiation as

X-Rays are beamed pass your body and then they are absorbed in different amounts depending on the density of the materials they pass through. X-Rays are used to see broken bones, metal plates that may have been placed or screws in a previous surgery, Arthritis ( shows your joints which can show evidence of arthritis). Dental decay is another common reason dentists use X-Rays to check if there are any cavities in the teeth. Osteoporosis, certain types of X-Ray tests can measure your bone density. Bone cancer, bone tumors can also be reveled in X-Rays. X-Rays can also be used to see the parts of the chest and abdomen for various reasons. Major risks involved in X-Rays is the amount of exposure of radiation you intake, though it is very minimal. Sensitivity to radiation depends on the age of the patient. Another factor in risks for X-Rays would be in some cases you are asked to swallow a tracer, or are injected with one. In rare cases some patients have allergic reactions, feel dizzy or warm, it has a metallic taste, lightheadedness, nausea, itching, and hives. In extremely rare cases It may even cause severe low pressure, anaphylactic shock, and cardiac arrest. Though these are extremely uncommon risks and results it could possibly