CT Scans, PET scans and MRIs.
By: Artisia Muhammad

Differences

• CT scans are images that uses x-rays to take cross sectional pictures of the body.
• PET scans are special dyes with radioactive tracers.
• MRI's use large magnets and radio waves to look at organs.

Which One?

• Physicians would choose CT scans to see the location and shapes of tumors.
• Physicians would choose PET scans to look at function. Used to diagnose cancer, injuries and infections.
• Physicians use MRI's to diagnose conditions such as torn ligaments and tumors. Doctors also use MRI's to examine the brain and spinal cord.

Cost

• CT scan range from $1,200- $3,200
• PET scan range from $3,000- $6,000
• MRI's range from $1,200- $4,000

MRI image

PET scan image

CT scan image

Sources

• http://www.baymoon.com/~gyncancer/library/weekly/aa071601a.htm
• http://clinicalposters.com/news/2013/0920-radiology-comparison.html