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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Can The Cancer Cells In Lymph Nodes Be Detected In PET Scan?

On March 9th, I had a large mass removed (18cm, 1666grams) removed as well as a complete hysterectomy. My Dr. felt 95% that it was not cancerous. However, one section did show positive . I had a PET scan on March 27th - which did not show any cancer cells but did show inflammation . If there were any remaining cancer cells in the lymph nodes, wouldn t they have shown up in the PET scan? I was told it could not be determined if I had Stg 1 or Stg 3 cancer unless my lymph nodes were tested.
Fri, 31 Mar 2023
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Anesthesiologist,  's  Response
Hello,

Most of the times, PET scan can detect the cancer cells in lymph nodes. PET combined with CT scan would help in accurately detecting the cancer cells. But lymph node removal and histopathology or fine needle aspiration cytology testing is the confirmative test. So, only the only the operating surgeon and treating oncologist can decide which test to be done to confirm the presence of cancer cells. So you can follow the instructions of your treating oncologist.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Pallavi M., Anesthesiologist
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Can The Cancer Cells In Lymph Nodes Be Detected In PET Scan?

Hello, Most of the times, PET scan can detect the cancer cells in lymph nodes. PET combined with CT scan would help in accurately detecting the cancer cells. But lymph node removal and histopathology or fine needle aspiration cytology testing is the confirmative test. So, only the only the operating surgeon and treating oncologist can decide which test to be done to confirm the presence of cancer cells. So you can follow the instructions of your treating oncologist. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Pallavi M., Anesthesiologist