MRI vs CAT and PET SCAN

Montenegrita · Regular Joined: 17 Nov 2007 Posts: 39

My co-worker said that I should ask for MRI of whole body as CAT and PET scans are not that reliable as MRI when checking for metastasis (all parts of body). I tried to ask my oncologist about that but I didn't get clear answer (very poor communication...). I searched the internet and found that some doctors are sending their colon cancer patients to MRI right away -i.e:
http://www.steadyhealth.com/mri_testing_for_metasis_of_colon_cancer_t60328.html
Check this also:
http://www.cancerhelp.org.uk/help/default.asp?page=149
Please let me know if you have some experience or know more then I.
Thanks!

brainman · Posted: Tue Aug 19, 2008 7:45 pm Post subject: Re: MRI vs CAT and PET SCAN

Hi Montenegrita. Generally speaking, a PET scan is best for detecting metastatic cancers since the radioactive isotope shines brightly on the image... even when the tumor is very small. An MRI produces a higher resolution image and therefore can show more details about the cancer. A CAT scan produces a sightly lower resolution image than an MRI. They each have their uses and are helpful if used correctly. I am not sure which one would be best for colon cancer. I can see it both ways: An MRI can show exactly where in the colon the cancer is while a PET scan can show that there is cancer present. I would as my medical team for a clearer explanation.

Oh, one more difference... a whole body MRI is rarely done because you have to lay absolutely still for a very long time. I have to lay absolutely still for at least 20 min for an MRI of just my head.
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Montenegrita · Regular Joined: 17 Nov 2007 Posts: 39

Thanks Jim. My friend said that after her husband complained on back pain, docotrs did PET and CAt scans and were not able to see anything. However, they insisted on MRI and there they were able to see that it spread on bones! Additionaly, their friend who is a radiologist said that MRI is a golden standard for cancers... she confused me totaly. Allt he best!

REB · Posted: Thu Aug 21, 2008 10:35 am Post subject: Re: MRI vs CAT and PET SCAN

From my understanding, for pet scans, they inject you with a radioactive surgery substance. Cancer tumors are sugar hogs, so they gobble up this stuff. This makes them glow brightly in the PET scan.

I have had 3 PET cans and one CAT scan. I have my fourth PET scan in October.

The first two I got to leave my pants on. The last one they had me remove my pants. I am not sure why. No biggy except it gets really cold in the scanning room. They did put a warm blanket over me, but I started to get chilly towards the end of the 20 minute scan.
_________________
10/01/07 - Removal of Stage III Colon Cancer Tumor and Temporary Colostomy
Started Chemotherapy 11-07-07 - FOLFOX regimen - 5-FU (5 Flurouracil) and leucovorin, oxaliplatin. Also Avastin
Last Chemo treatment 04-09-08, Colostomy Reversal 04-28-08 Age:41

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