When someone hears the words
“you have breast cancer,”
life changes in an instant. It’s a diagnosis that brings a whirlwind of emotions—fear, confusion, and a flood of tests and treatment options. One common question that arises is:
“Do I need a PET CT scan?” or
“Shouldn’t I get the most advanced imaging available?” These are valid concerns.
Let’s start with the basics. A
PET CT (Positron Emission Tomography - Computed Tomography)
scan is an advanced imaging technique that helps doctors not only see where cancer is but also understand how active it is.
Unlike regular imaging, a PET CT shows how cancer cells are behaving. It’s extremely useful in detecting cancer that has spread (metastasized) or in assessing how well treatment is working.
But here’s what’s important:
PET CT is not necessary for every breast cancer patient. Why? Because not all breast cancers are the same. The need depends on the cancer’s stage, grade, and type.
In early-stage breast cancer—when the tumor is small and contained—other tests like mammograms, ultrasounds, MRIs, or basic scans (e.g., bone scan, chest X-ray) usually provide all the needed information.
So, who really needs a PET CT scan?
Doctors may recommend it in the following situations:
• When the cancer is
locally advanced
or
high-grade
suggesting it may have spread beyond the breast.
• If symptoms or previous tests indicate the cancer might be present in distant organs such as the liver, lungs, or bones.
• If the cancer returns after previous treatment (recurrence).
• When results from other imaging tests are unclear or conflicting.
In such cases, PET CT offers a clearer picture, helping doctors plan treatment more effectively. However, for someone with early-stage breast cancer, a PET CT might lead to unnecessary radiation exposure, anxiety, and financial burden—without significant benefit.
In countries like India, the
cost and availability
of PET CT scans can be another challenge. These tests are expensive and not always covered by insurance. That’s why it’s essential to use them wisely—only when they’re truly needed.
Dr. Pragati Singhal
