PEM Scan
What is a PEM scan?
A PEM scan or Positron Emission Mammography is new imaging technology that is used to identify, stage, and help plan treatment of cancerous tumors earlier and more accurately.
The PEM scan is also used in the ongoing management of breast cancer treatment, and in monitoring for reoccurrence.
What physicians see so early in a PEM image that distinguishes cancer from healthy tissue is the accumulation of an injected, radioactive substance, called a radiotracer, in the cancerous tissue.
PEM uses a radiotracer based on sugar (glucose). Cancer cells absorb and accumulate sugar faster than healthy tissue. Essentially, PEM captures a “snapshot” of the cellular activity occurring within a mass or cancerous tissue. So not only does PEM reveal the size, shape and location of a suspicious mass, it is also over 90%* accurate in identifying if it is cancerous.
How is a PEM scan performed?
You will be given an injection of a substance that has a combination of sugar and a small amount of radioactive substance. Since cancer cells take up or absorb sugar faster than other tissues in the body, the radioactive sugar can help locate a cancer tumor. The test takes about 2 hours and you will be required to quietly relax during the procedure.
How should I prepare for the exam?
It is important to prepare properly for the PEM scan. Please review the following guidelines and follow them as closely as possible.
- Do not eat or drink anything for six hours prior to your exam, except for clear, unflavored water.
- Do not use gum, mints, candy, or cough drops or syrup on the day of your exam.
- You may take any prescribed medications on the day of your exam unless instructed by your physician not to do so.
- All diabetic medications, insulin or oral must be reviewed with your physicians.
- Avoid strenuous activity 24 hours in advance of your study and engage in only minimal physical activity on the day of the exam.
- Please dress warmly, in comfortable, loose clothing. Prior to the exam, you will be asked to remove your top and bra and given a hospital gown to wear during the scanning procedure. Leave jewelry and valuables at home.
- Arrive 30 minutes prior to your exam to allow for registration, consultation, glucose reading and exam preparation.
- Bring your insurance card and a photo I.D. along with any deductible, co-insurance, or co-payment required by your insurance provider.
How do I schedule my exam?
We will assist you in filling out forms and scheduling your scan.
For more information or concerns, please call us at 847-797-9000.