Positron emission tomography (PET/CT) is currently the most advanced medical imaging technology.

Principles
PET evaluates the metabolic activity of cells, particularly the metabolism of glucose.

PET uses a molecule similar to glucose, FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose), which contains fluorine-18, a positron emitter that is captured by glucose-savvy cancer cells.

A radioactive substance (18FDG) is administered to the patient. The patient is then placed in front of a camera which allows imaging of the distribution of this substance in his body.

PET, combined with 16-detector computerized axial tomography (PET/CT), also provides high-definition anatomical information. The reading of the exam is done by a nuclear medicine specialist.