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positron emission tomography scan (PAH-zih-tron ee-MIH-shun toh-MAH-gruh-fee skan)

 A procedure in which a small amount of radioactive glucose (sugar) is injected into a vein, and a scanner is used to make detailed, computerized pictures of areas inside the body where the glucose is used. Because cancer cells often use more glucose than normal cells, the pictures can be used to find cancer cells in the body. Also called PET scan.

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PET (positron emission tomography) scan; drawing shows patient lying on table that slides through the PET machine.




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