Colon Cancer Support Group
Colorectal cancer, also called colon cancer or bowel cancer, includes cancerous growths in the colon, rectum and appendix. Many colorectal cancers are thought to arise from mushroom-like growths that are usually benign, but some may develop into cancer over time. The majority of the time, the diagnosis of localized colon cancer is through colonoscopy.
I am getting close to my three year scan. Last year I asked for a PET. Is the CT scan as effective, more effective, not as effective? What about MRIs? I am even willing to pay out of pocket for peace of mind if it means getting something really comprehensive. Maybe I'm just suffering from "scanxiety"
As for the type of scan, I've had all three, although the MRI was non-cancer related, a CT scans resolution is only 1cm so anything smaller than that will normally not show up.
The PET scan is the same as the CT scan but with the addition of radioactive glucose as SOME tumors have a high glucose update but not all so you can get a number of false negatives!!
I've not a lot of info as to how effective an MRI is but having seen the results of an MRI on my shoulder the pictures to me weren't that clear but may show more to someone trained to read them.
I guess to help make the decision you should try and find out if your original cancer was one that has a high glucose update.
If you are at low risk of having mets, no lymph nodes involved and colon wall not breached then in someways a straight forward colonoscopy may be the best way to go as there is no radiation exposure.
Thanks for responding. I have a difficult time deciphering the medical terminology so your feedback really helps.
I have had CTs, PETs, and MRI scans. I like the PET but my current onc says that the new technology with the new MRI scanners is better and no radiation. I just had an MRI done with a new technology scanner at UMC here in Tucson and the onc was very pleased. I will ask for another PET down the road, I just like to be sure.