Full Body PET Scans to Detect Cancer Better

Anatomical planes of the human body

Using the best technology is extremely important in cancer.  The introduction of new technologies can provide better diagnosis, treatment and overall results.  That is why the a new PET scanner could be an important innovation.  The new PET scanner can quickly scan the entire body, while using much less radioactiveSome elements (atoms) are not stable. The breakdown of these elements leads to the release of energy that is called radiation. The form of the energy (radiation) may differ between different unstable elements. Radiation from the breakdown of radioactive elements is damaging to cells and their genes. Cancer cells do not respond in a normal fashion to DNA damage and may be sensitive to killing by the radiation emitted from radioactive elements. materials than a typical PET scan.  Current PET scans can only survey a small area of the body and involve much more radiationIn cancer biology: A cancer treatment in which high energy beams are used to kill cancer cells. Radiation can also cause genetic damage that can lead to cancer. As an example, skin cancer is believed to be greatly increased by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. exposure, which can be damaging to cancer patients, especially young people.  The device is in the prototype stage, but working models should be produced by next year. 

Image Credit
Richfield, David (2014). "Medical Gallery of David RIchfield." Wikijournal of Medicine. DOI:10.15347/wjm/2014.009