What is a DOTATATE PET scan?
PET stands for “positron emission tomography” – it refers to the radiation type emitted and the three-dimensional processing performed. PET imaging is a diagnostic imaging tool. PET imaging is a process
by which the biological functions of the body are imaged. By using a small amount of a biological marker, the
PET scan procedure can assess areas of abnormal metabolism in the body. The tracer used in neuroendocrine PET-CT imaging is 68Ga-DOTATATE, which binds to protein molecules called somatostatin receptors found on the surface of neuroendocrine tumours.
The radiation that results from a positron being emitted (and annihilated by an electron from the surrounding tissue) is ultimately and indirectly detected using a particular machine
called a PET scanner.
The latest advancements in imaging have combined the PET scan procedure with a CT scan (PET/CT), allowing areas of interest to be more accurately localized. PET can also be manually fused to an MRI scan, especially for clinical use in children.
PET scan procedure
At the beginning of the PET scan procedure, you will sit in a chair and receive an injection of a small amount of radioactive material called DOTATATE in a vein in your arm. This will not make you feel differently at all.
You will be asked to sit quietly for a period, usually about 30-60 minutes.
During this time, you must sit and relax.
You will be asked to lie down on an imaging table which will move you through the PET/CT scanner. The machine has a larger opening than an MRI, and it does not make any significant sound. A PET scan procedure takes about an hour to complete, excluding the report.
PET scan preparation & diet
This procedure requires no specific dietary preparation, e.g. fasting. Still, some medications may interfere with DOTATATE uptake that may need to be stopped for a time before your scan date.
These include:
- Monthly octreotide LAR (also known as Sandostatin LAR)
- Monthly lanreotide (also known as Lanreotide Autogel) or
- Short-acting octreotide injections (usually 2-3 times per day)
Please contact our department to determine how long each of these should be stopped.
What can I expect to happen next?
Upon arrival in the unit, you will be injected with a radioactive tracer. You will wait while the tracer gets taken up by the tissues – approximately 60 minutes. After that, you will be scanned. This takes about 30 minutes.
Does insurance cover the cost of the test?
Medical schemes and private insurance companies usually cover PET/CT imaging, especially for cancer staging. Medical plans usually follow the prescribed minimum benefit guidelines. Still, many will cover other indications for a PET/ CT scan either as part of the oncology benefit or the imaging benefit. Contact your insurance for further information. We can help motivate for the scan if needed.
How long will the whole scan take?
Usually about 2 – 2 ½ hours (including reporting time).
