A new study shows that PET scans, performed 3 months after cervical cancer treatment has ended, helps determine whether treatment was successful or not. During a FDG-PET scan, tumors appear bright amidst healthy surrounding tissue. This can indicate how well the patient responded to treatment and if other treatment methods are necessary.
The author of the study notes that it can be difficult to detect if treatment completely eliminated cervical tumors. There is no blood test to screen for cervical cancer, MRI and CT scans sometimes can not tell the difference between tumors and surrounding tissue, and many times there are no symptoms of recurrence until tumors grow large. Pap smears can be inaccurate due to the changes caused by radiation therapy.
The author of the study notes that it can be difficult to detect if treatment completely eliminated cervical tumors. There is no blood test to screen for cervical cancer, MRI and CT scans sometimes can not tell the difference between tumors and surrounding tissue, and many times there are no symptoms of recurrence until tumors grow large. Pap smears can be inaccurate due to the changes caused by radiation therapy.
What is an FDG-PET Scan
A FDG-PET scan is an imaging test used in conjunction with a radioactive substance called [F-18] fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG). This substance helps tumors to be identified in the scan. It is given to the patient in an IV and feels no different than a routine IV drip.What Does This Mean for You
PET scans are often used in determining how far cervical cancer has spread. In many studies, a FDG-PET scan has been proven effective in determining the effectiveness of treatment against cervical cancer. The problem is that some insurance companies will not cover post treatment FDG-PET scans for cervical cancer. They will cover other imaging tests, however like the author of the study noted, these tests can be inaccurate.Comments
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