The FAPI PET-CT Scan is a high-tech molecular imaging exam, which is used to identify and assess a large variety of cancers with unparalleled clarity. It employs a particular radio-labeled molecule called the Fibroblast Activation Factor Inhibitor (FAPI), which targets cancer-associated fibroblasts present in numerous types of cancers.
This innovative scan is a joint PET/CT scan and thus provides functional and anatomical information in a single examination. Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy has a state-of-the-art FAPI PET-CT imaging system to facilitate precise diagnosis, staging, treatment planning, and follow-up.
Why is the Test Recommended?
A FAPI PET CT Scan may be indicated for those who have suspected or known cancers in whom a detailed assessment of the entire body is needed. It is especially useful for:
To identify cancer in the lymph nodes, bones, liver, lungs, and other organs.
Conditions in which conventional imaging techniques are not useful.
The tumor-to-background contrast of FAPI imaging is very good, which aids in detecting and analysing cancer lesions.
How is the Procedure Performed?
FAPI PET scan is a safe, minimally invasive procedure performed under the experienced guidance of imaging techniques.
Radiotracer Injection
A small amount of FAPI radiotracer is administered through an intravenous injection.
Uptake Period
The radiotracer circulates through the body and accumulates in tissues expressing Fibroblast Activation Protein (FAP).
PET-CT Imaging
The patient lies comfortably on the scanning table while PET and CT images are acquired.
Image Analysis
Specialized software combines PET and CT images to provide a comprehensive metabolic and anatomical assessment.
Duration
The complete procedure generally takes approximately 90-120 minutes, including preparation and imaging time.
Our team ensures patient safety, comfort, and personalized care throughout the examination.
Preparation Before the Scan
The following is advised for the best quality images:
Prepare as directed by the imaging team.
Stay adequately hydrated.
Clothing should be loose and comfortable; no metal accessories should be worn.
Tell the team if they are taking any medicines.
Bring past imaging, pathology, and medical records.
Tell employees if pregnant or nursing.
Depending on the clinical indication, a certain set of preparation requirements may be necessary.
Benefits and Diagnostic Value
The FAPI PET-CT scan has several benefits:
Very sensitive to detecting a large variety of cancers.
Superior imaging of tumors, with excellent image contrast.
Evaluation of the whole body in one examination.
Better detection of primary tumours and metastases.
Useful information for the treatment planning and radiation therapy targeting.
Supports keeping track of treatment success and the progress of the disease.
May detect lesions that are not evident on routine imaging.
This advanced imaging modality is increasingly becoming an important tool in modern oncology.
Safety and Patient Experience
Doses of radiation tracers and PET imaging protocols followed in the case of FAPI PET-CT imaging are carefully controlled and conform to strict safety protocols. The process is painless, noninvaded and not at all uncomfortable. Patients are always supervised during the scanning process.
Report and Result Timeline
The reports are typically received within 24-48 hours.
Full interpretation is done by expert Nuclear Medicine doctors.
Digital reports and pictures are available for convenience.
Results should be discussed with the referring physician to plan treatment.
Test information: As advised by the Nuclear Medicine specialist
Reporting: Within 24–48 hours
Fasting for 4–6 hours before the scan may be required. Please follow the instructions provided by your doctor or Nuclear Medicine specialist.
Drink adequate water before the scan unless otherwise advised.
Please carry all medical documents, including doctor referral, biopsy reports, histopathology reports, previous PET-CT scans, CT, MRI, and blood test reports.
Please carry a recent Serum Creatinine blood test report if contrast-enhanced CT is planned.
Inform the staff if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, diabetic, or have any known allergies to contrast media.
Continue regular medications unless specifically advised otherwise by your doctor.
Arrive at least 15–30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
Wear comfortable clothing and avoid metal accessories such as jewelry, belts, or watches.
Please carry a valid photo identification proof, such as an Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, or Driving License.
Follow all instructions provided by the imaging team for optimal scan quality.
स्कैन से 4–6 घंटे पहले उपवास (फास्टिंग) करना पड़ सकता है। कृपया अपने डॉक्टर या न्यूक्लियर मेडिसिन विशेषज्ञ के निर्देशों का पालन करें।
यदि अन्यथा न कहा गया हो तो स्कैन से पहले पर्याप्त मात्रा में पानी पिएं।
डॉक्टर की पर्ची, बायोप्सी रिपोर्ट, हिस्टोपैथोलॉजी रिपोर्ट, पिछले PET-CT, CT, MRI तथा अन्य जांच रिपोर्ट साथ लेकर आएं।
यदि कॉन्ट्रास्ट CT की योजना है, तो हाल की Serum Creatinine रिपोर्ट साथ लाएं।
यदि आप गर्भवती हैं, स्तनपान करा रही हैं, मधुमेह से पीड़ित हैं या कॉन्ट्रास्ट मीडिया से एलर्जी है, तो पहले से स्टाफ को सूचित करें।
नियमित दवाइयाँ सामान्य रूप से लें, जब तक डॉक्टर द्वारा अन्य निर्देश न दिए गए हों।
निर्धारित समय से कम से कम 15–30 मिनट पहले केंद्र पर पहुंचें।
ढीले और आरामदायक कपड़े पहनें तथा धातु की वस्तुएँ जैसे आभूषण, बेल्ट या घड़ी पहनने से बचें।
आधार कार्ड, पैन कार्ड, पासपोर्ट या ड्राइविंग लाइसेंस जैसे वैध पहचान पत्र साथ लाएं।
बेहतर इमेजिंग परिणामों के लिए मेडिकल टीम द्वारा दिए गए सभी निर्देशों का पालन करें।
Registration and payment formalities are completed upon arrival.
The patient's medical history, referral details, previous treatment records, pathology reports, and imaging studies are reviewed.
Height, weight, and vital information are recorded.
An intravenous cannula is inserted for the administration of the FAPI radiotracer.
The radiotracer (FAPI) is injected intravenously.
The patient is advised to rest comfortably during the uptake period to allow proper tracer distribution throughout the body.
After the uptake period, PET-CT imaging is performed. The scan generally takes approximately 20–30 minutes.
High-resolution PET and CT images are acquired and reviewed by specialists.
Additional delayed images may be obtained if clinically required.
After completion of the scan, the patient can resume normal daily activities unless otherwise advised.
The entire procedure generally takes approximately 1.5–3 hours, depending on the clinical indication and imaging requirements.
Images and findings are interpreted by experienced Nuclear Medicine physicians for comprehensive reporting.
* For details, please see service-related policies