Positron Emission Tomography of the Chest

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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What do I need to know about a positron emission tomography (PET) scan of the chest?

A PET scan is used to take pictures of your chest. A small amount of radiation, called tracer, is put into your body before the PET scan. The tracer shows how chemicals, such as glucose (sugar), are working in your tissues. A PET scan of your chest will show the blood flow through your heart. A PET scan may show an abnormal growth, such as a tumor. It may be used to show if cancer has spread. A PET scan may show disease or damage to your chest, lungs, heart, or esophagus.

How do I prepare for a PET scan?

• Tell your healthcare provider about all medicines you currently take. He or she will tell you if you need to stop any medicine for the test, and when to stop. He or she will tell you which medicines to take or not take on the day of your test.
• If you are a woman, tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Take only the medicines your healthcare provider told you to take.
• You may need blood tests before your PET scan.
• Your provider will tell you if you need to stop eating or drinking a certain time before the test. He or she may tell you not to eat or drink anything except water for 4 to 6 hours before your scan.

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What will happen during the PET scan?

• Tracer will be put in your IV. You will need to remain as still as possible for 1 hour as the tracer moves through your body. Healthcare providers may give you sedative medicine through your IV to help you feel calm and relaxed. You will lie on your back on a table attached to the PET scan machine. When the PET scan begins, the table will move through a large hole into the middle of the machine.
• You will need to lie still while the scan is being done. Healthcare providers may ask you to change positions between pictures. A camera will take pictures of your chest. The pictures will appear on a monitor. When the PET scan is over, the table will move out of the machine.

What should I expect after a PET scan?

• Do not get off the table until healthcare providers say it is okay. You may be able to go home after the test is complete. If you are staying in the hospital, you will be taken to a room.
• If you are breastfeeding, do not breastfeed your child right after the test. Ask your healthcare provider how long to wait to let the tracer leave your body.

What are the risks of a PET scan of the chest?

The radiation from the scan may increase your risk of cancer. Small growths in your body may not be found with a PET scan. If the results are not clear, you may need another PET scan. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, a PET scan may harm your baby.

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