DOTANOC PET scan, which is also referred to as a Ga-68 DOTANOC, is an imaging diagnostic test that involves injecting a radiotracer solution called DOTA and NOC before performing a PET or CT scan.
Ga-68 DOTANOC binds to somatostatin receptors, which are prevalent in neuroendocrine tumours. A doctor may order this test to perform a scan and detect gastropancreatic neuroendocrine tumours or pancreatic cancer, to identify metastases, or as a follow-up test for individuals who have already received a pancreatic cancer diagnosis or treatment. Such tumours can be seen on images acquired through this test during staging, identification, and follow-up appointments.
DOTANOC PET scan presents a high level of specificity and sensitivity for detecting pancreatic tumours. The radiation from the test could harm a foetus; thus, pregnant women must inform their physician about the pregnancy even though the procedure is risk free and non-invasive.
The radioactive tracer is flushed out of the body in a span of one or two days and has almost no adverse effects. Additionally, it’s crucial that you report to your physician about any pre-existing disorders, such as:
• Arthritis
• Joint conditions
• History of past surgeries
• Allergy to contrast material
• Asthma
• Fractures
What happens during the DOTANOC PET scan?
Before a DOTANOC PET scan, you are requested to lie comfortably on your back on a movable table that glides inside the scan machine. The DOTANOC PET scan process is completely painless; however, as it takes place inside the PET scan equipment, it may be a little troubling for people who are anxious about isolated places. Before the test, discuss your claustrophobia and/or discomfort in small spaces and ways to overcome it with the technician. To help you calm down and complete the DOTANOC PET scan exam, a little sedative may be given to you.
Following steps are generally involved in this scan:
- You will be requested to remove all jewellery and clothes with metallic substances including zips and buckles.
- In the case of children or individuals who are non-co-operative, sedation may be required.
- A cannula is then inserted, and a very small amount of radioactive injection is administered intravenously.
- You will be required to empty your bladder before taking the scan. After this, a full body scan is performed.
- You will be required to lie down and hold your hands up for about ten minutes during the diagnostic CT phase of the examination because the catheter will be attached to an injector through which IV contrast will be administered before it’s flushed with saline.
It takes under a minute to complete this procedure. It’s very normal for you to feel a little warm throughout this procedure.
Benefits of DOTANOC PET CT scan
The DOTANOC PET CT scan has several advantages for individuals, which make it a highly effective tool for neuroendocrine tumour (NET)Â diagnosis.
Faster scanning – The DOTANOC PET CT scan can be finished in only 15 to 20 minutes, which is a far shorter time span than that for the three-day octreoscan that needs at least 3 to 4 days to complete. This eliminates the inconvenience of making repeated back-and-forth hospital/diagnostic centre trips and facilitates the early diagnosis of tumours.
Enhanced image quality – The DOTANOC PET CT scan is extremely sensitive and produces high-quality images that can be used to detect tumours as small as 1 cm in size. As a result, it is easier to detect diseases and design effective treatment plans.
Aids in the development of a treatment plan – Due to the excellent quality of the DOTANOC PET CT scan, treatment regimens can be precisely made with an effective diagnosis. To get a precise result, the test may also be employed to evaluate how well treatment options are working.
