PET-CT Scan
Medical Oncology · Diagnostic
2-3 hours
Duration
Outpatient
Setting
No specific recovery time is needed as the procedure is non-invasive beyond the tracer injection. Patients are advised to drink plenty of fluids afterward to help clear the tracer from the body and can resume normal activities the same day. Results are typically reviewed by the oncologist within a few days to guide treatment decisions.
Recovery
₹15,000+
Cost
📖About PET-CT Scan
A PET-CT scan combines positron emission tomography (PET) with computed tomography (CT) to produce detailed images that show both the structure and metabolic activity of tissues in the body. A small amount of radioactive tracer, usually a glucose analogue, is injected before the scan, and since cancer cells typically consume more glucose than normal cells, they appear as bright spots on the resulting images. This combined approach allows physicians to precisely locate areas of abnormal metabolic activity and correlate them with anatomical structures, making it invaluable for cancer staging, detecting recurrence and assessing treatment response. It can identify spread to other parts of the body that might not be visible on standard CT or MRI alone.
Duration
2-3 hours
Setting
Outpatient
Recovery
No specific recovery time is needed as the procedure is non-invasive beyond the tracer injection. Patients are advised to drink plenty of fluids afterward to help clear the tracer from the body and can resume normal activities the same day. Results are typically reviewed by the oncologist within a few days to guide treatment decisions.
Cost Range
₹15,000 – ₹35,000
Specialty
Medical Oncology
Success Rate
Highly accurate for cancer staging
Find Medical Oncology Specialists
Connect with 500+ verified Medical Oncology specialists for PET-CT Scan. Expert treatment plans, real reviews, and instant appointments.
📋Indications — Who Needs This Treatment?
- 1Cancer staging at diagnosis, detecting cancer recurrence, evaluating treatment response, distinguishing scar tissue from active tumour, identifying the primary source of cancer that has already spread, unexplained lymph node enlargement
Star Health Insurance
FeaturedIndia's #1 Standalone Health Insurer
Comprehensive health cover for individuals & families from ₹299/month. Cashless treatment at 14,000+ hospitals across India.
🔬How the Treatment is Performed
- 1The patient fasts for several hours before the scan and is injected with a radioactive glucose tracer, followed by a waiting period of about an hour to allow the tracer to distribute throughout the body. The patient then lies still on a table that moves through the PET-CT scanner, which captures detailed images over 20-30 minutes. The images are reconstructed and analysed by a radiologist or nuclear medicine physician to identify areas of abnormal activity.
📝Pre-Treatment Preparation
- 1Consult a Medical Oncology specialist to confirm suitability for PET-CT Scan
- 2Complete all pre-treatment investigations as directed — blood tests, imaging, ECG, or specialist clearance
- 3Disclose all current medications, supplements, and allergies to your treating physician
- 4Fast (nil by mouth) for 6–8 hours if the treatment involves anaesthesia or sedation
- 5Arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you, especially for procedures requiring sedation
- 6Follow all specific pre-treatment instructions issued by your care team regarding diet or medication changes
Star Health Insurance
FeaturedIndia's #1 Standalone Health Insurer
Comprehensive health cover for individuals & families from ₹299/month. Cashless treatment at 14,000+ hospitals across India.
⚠️Possible Side Effects & Risks
- 1Minor radiation exposure from the tracer and CT component, mild discomfort from the injection, rare allergic reaction to the tracer, temporary radioactivity requiring precautions around young children and pregnant women for a day
🩹Recovery & Aftercare
- 1No specific recovery time is needed as the procedure is non-invasive beyond the tracer injection. Patients are advised to drink plenty of fluids afterward to help clear the tracer from the body and can resume normal activities the same day. Results are typically reviewed by the oncologist within a few days to guide treatment decisions.
Treatment Journey — What to Expect
Before Treatment
Pre-treatment workup, consent signing, and preparation as instructed by your care team. Baseline tests and imaging completed.
During Treatment
PET-CT Scan is administered over 2-3 hours. Vital signs monitored. Your specialist manages any immediate side effects.
Immediate Post-Treatment
Recovery observation, assessment of initial response, discharge instructions provided. Follow-up appointment scheduled.
Long-term Recovery (No specific recovery time is needed as the procedure is non-invasive beyond the tracer injection. Patients are advised to drink plenty of fluids afterward to help clear the tracer from the body and can resume normal activities the same day. Results are typically reviewed by the oncologist within a few days to guide treatment decisions.)
Return to normal activities as tolerated. Monitoring for treatment response and side effects. Ongoing support from your specialist.
PET-CT Scan Cost in India (2024–25)
| Component | Govt / Budget | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Specialist Consultation | ₹300 – ₹800 | ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 |
| Procedure / Session Cost | ₹2,000 – ₹10,000 | ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Medications | ₹500 – ₹3,000 | ₹2,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Follow-up & Monitoring | ₹300 – ₹1,000 | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Rehabilitation / Aftercare | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹5,000 – ₹25,000 |
* Estimates for India 2024–25. CGHS / Ayushman Bharat may cover eligible treatments. Individual costs vary by hospital, city, and complexity.
Treatment Outcomes
PET-CT Scan has a documented success rate of Highly accurate for cancer staging when performed by qualified specialists at accredited facilities. Individual outcomes vary based on disease stage, patient health, and adherence to the treatment plan and aftercare instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PET-CT Scan?+
A PET-CT scan combines positron emission tomography (PET) with computed tomography (CT) to produce detailed images that show both the structure and metabolic activity of tissues in the body. A small amount of radioactive tracer, usually a glucose analogue, is injected before the scan, and since cancer cells typically consume more glucose than normal cells, they appear as bright spots on the resulting images. This combined approach allows physicians to precisely locate areas of abnormal metabolic activity and correlate them with anatomical structures, making it invaluable for cancer staging, detecting recurrence and assessing treatment response. It can identify spread to other parts of the body that might not be visible on standard CT or MRI alone.
Who is a candidate for PET-CT Scan?+
PET-CT Scan is recommended for patients diagnosed with specific conditions where other approaches have been insufficient. Your Medical Oncology specialist will assess your suitability based on your diagnosis, health history, and treatment goals.
How long does PET-CT Scan take?+
The typical duration is 2-3 hours. This may vary based on the complexity of your case and individual response to treatment.
What is the recovery time after PET-CT Scan?+
Recovery typically takes No specific recovery time is needed as the procedure is non-invasive beyond the tracer injection. Patients are advised to drink plenty of fluids afterward to help clear the tracer from the body and can resume normal activities the same day. Results are typically reviewed by the oncologist within a few days to guide treatment decisions.. Your care team will provide specific instructions based on your response and overall health.
What are the risks or side effects of PET-CT Scan?+
Side effects vary by individual and are detailed in the section above. Your specialist will discuss all risks and benefits with you before treatment begins. Serious adverse effects are uncommon but are part of the informed consent process.
What is the success rate of PET-CT Scan?+
PET-CT Scan has a documented success rate of Highly accurate for cancer staging at accredited facilities. Outcomes depend on disease stage, patient health, and adherence to the treatment plan and aftercare instructions.
Community Q&A
Ready to Start Your Treatment?
Connect with experienced Medical Oncology specialists at top hospitals. Get expert advice and a personalised treatment plan today.
Related Treatments in Diagnostic
Sponsored
Find a Treatment Expert
Book a consultation today
Why Lab Dekho?
- ✅500+ verified specialists
- 🏥200+ accredited hospitals
- 💊Genuine medicines delivered
- 🔒Insurance & cashless support
- 📞24/7 medical helpline
Book a Specialist Consultation
Talk to a Medical Oncology expert today
Quick Cost Estimate
Specialists Available Now
Consult online · Avg wait 10 min
Sponsored
Find a Treatment Expert
Book a consultation today
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer
This page is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified specialist before deciding on any treatment. In emergencies, call 112.