Angela,It just so happens that the project I am working on now is the
implementation of the Radiology Information System so I have a few resources at
my disposal :) A PET scan uses radioisotopes to target specific areas of the
body. Unlike a traditional Xray, it is not usually used to check for bony
process abnormalities (fractures) but for soft tissue disease. In the context
of MM, it is usually done to check for areas of metastasis (spread) that would
not be picked up on other exams (xray, cat scan, mri, etc.). Tumors (both benign
and malignant) and soft tissue inflammation are picked up by the scan. But let
me give you a warning that I have heard very often from the professionals I work
with...it is an extremely sensitive test and more often will pick up "false
positives" than "false negatives". In fact, when I was first diagnosed, some
tried to convince me to get it done, just to make sure there was no spread.
Several other more informed people begged me NOT to do it. They said that it
more than likely would pick up something, even something benign and I would only
panic. In fact, after I read more about this, it turns out that studies have
shown that PET scans can do more psychological damage by causing panic and worry
for no reason. When first dealing with MM, I didn't need anything else to panic
over! And even if negative, there is still no guarantees so some people would
stop going for follow ups if nothing was found. It is a relatively new
technology and definitely has it's place in cancer treatment but I would urge
anyone to get educated before deciding if it's right for you. Also, many
insurance companies only pay for it for specific conditions (MM is one) and it
can be very expensive if you have to pay for it yourself. Hope this helps,
Angela. If not, let me know and I'll track down another Radiologist. Nancy

Angela <trm5814@...> wrote:Can anyone here tell me what a PET scan is?
(no it has nothing to do with animals) I know it has something to do with
detecting cellular activity changes. Nancy, do you know? Anyone? Thanks in
advance for any answers. I believe it is something new they are using for
cancer but know nothing about it.
Your friend, Angela ^i^

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