PEM scan

Options
keepthefaith
keepthefaith Member Posts: 2,156
edited June 2014 in Just Diagnosed

Just diagnosed, BS thinks its IDC, but not positive.  Has anyone had a PEM scan? My BS is going to try to get Aetna to authorize it...anyone have any experience with that? She says it is her preference for finding the smallest of tumors...

Thanks

· Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Comments

  • exbrnxgrl
    exbrnxgrl Member Posts: 12,424
    edited September 2013

    I see you joined in 2009. Is this a recurrence or a new primary? Forgive my ignorance, but what is a PEM scan?

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • keepthefaith
    keepthefaith Member Posts: 2,156
    edited September 2013

    The first DX was benign in 2009 on my other breast. This DX was not, unfortunately. From what I understand the PEM is an alternative to a breast MRI when trying to stage,  diagnose, treat, etc. My BS says she prefers it b/c it picks up very minute abnormalties...and they did get Aetna's approval today!Smile 

    An IV injection and scan of your breasts only. I haven't done a lot of research as of yet, but it has something to do with metabolizing sugar, carbs...

    I'll try to remember to post again after it's done and let you know more. I'll have it done on Friday. A 2 hr process from start to finish, some restrictions on your diet and activities the day before. Should have results on Monday. Hoping all goes well and there are no new surprises!

    Well wishes to you~

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • exbrnxgrl
    exbrnxgrl Member Posts: 12,424
    edited September 2013

    Thanks for the explanation. It sounds very similar to a PET scan. You mention dx in 2009 but said your (biopsy?) was benign. So this is actually your first bc dx. I know it's hard not to worry but try to take it a day at a time. Take care.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Mariam1957
    Mariam1957 Member Posts: 1
    edited November 2013


    It is a useless test...lots of research but no results that have changed practice patterns.... And high radiation to breast.... 100 x a mammogram and no useful anatomic info....

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • tangandchris
    tangandchris Member Posts: 1,855
    edited November 2013


    I just had one done last week....not sure about the uselessness of it though :(

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • encyclias
    encyclias Member Posts: 302
    edited November 2013


    I had one two weeks ago, 'eyes to thighs', and almost exactly to the date of the one I had last year which found involved lymph nodes that no other test could see. Anyway, my PET is now clear; no sign of mets anywhere in my body - gives me an excuse at least to bypass a colonoscopy, lol. A great relief that my bones and other organs appear okay at the moment. However, like all scans, it can't see anything less than 5mm.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Categories