What is a PET-CT sarcoidosis scan?

A PET-CT scan combines a PET and a CT scan, and by combining these two techniques, we are able to provide important information to help your doctor design the best treatment plan for you.

The cardiac sarcoidosis scan is performed by completing one or two scans, as follows: 

• Resting rubidium PET-CT perfusion scan - this scan provides a baseline measurement of blood to your heart. 
• FDG PET-CT scan (full body scan) - this scan is used to assess inflammation in the heart muscle and the rest of the body. 

All PET-CT scans are carried out at 77 Wimpole Street, London. 

What should I do before the scan? 

For the FDG PET-CT scan, you will be required to adhere to a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet from the morning prior to the day of your scan. You will then need to fast for 18 hours prior to your appointment time of your PET-CT scan. 

During this whole period you will need to keep well hydrated, so be sure to drink plenty of water. 

What happens during the scan? 

For the resting rubidium PET-CT scan, a small amount of a radioactive liquid will be injected into a cannula which will allow the scanner to take pictures of the blood flow to your heart. This scan takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

For the FDG PET-CT scan, you will be given an injection of the radioactive tracer. After the tracer has been administered, you will need to rest comfortably for around 60-90 minutes while the injection is absorbed into your body. 

After the rest time, you will be scanned for between 30-40 minutes, depending on the type of scan required. 

What should I do after the scan? 

Once the scan is complete, you will be able to return home and resume your normal activities and diet. 

You are advised to:

• Drink plenty of water (4-5 glasses); this will help flush the tracer out of your system.
• Limit close contact with infants and pregnant women for the first five hours after your scan to avoid exposing them to any radiation.