PET Neuroendocrine (DOTATATE)

What is a PET scan?
A PET scan is an imaging procedure used to look for disease in the body. It uses imaging agents (like Dotatate) that contain a small amount of radioactive material that can target certain cancer cells. The patient receives a small amount of this radioactive agent, through an IV catheter. There will then be a resting period for 1 hour and then the patient will lie in the PET/CT scanner. The machine captures information from the radioactive material and is combined with a CT to look at anatomy. These images are interpreted by a specially trained radiologist.
 
What is Dotatate?
Dotatate is an injection that contains a radioactive substance called Gallium GA-68. This injection acts as a tracer and is specifically designed to help locate somatostatin receptor-positive Neuroendocrine tumors (NET’s) in adults and children with the help of PET/CT imaging.
 
How does Dotatate work?
Dotatate’s radioactive tracer is injected into your body through an intravenous (IV) line. It is then taken up by the somatostatin receptors in your body. A PET scanner detects the cells in your body that absorb the radiotracer, giving doctors information about if there is cancer and where it is located.
 
Dotatate side effects
No side effects have been consistently reported. Talk to your doctor if you have an allergic reaction or experience rash or swelling at the site of injection.

Exam Preparation

  • Patients will need to drink 20 oz of water to hydrate prior to the exam. Please come well hydrated as dehydration may affect the results of imaging.
  • Please wear clothing that does not have metal.
  • If you have been prescribed somatostatin analogs:
    • Short-acting – Can be used up to 24 hours prior to imaging.
    • Long-acting – Discontinue using analogs for 3-4 weeks before the scheduled day of imaging.

What to Expect Upon Arrival

  • Your height and weight will be measured and recorded.
  • An intravenous (IV) catheter line will be placed in your arm or similar vein.
  • You will be asked to wait about an hour for the solution to make its way through your body and attach to cells.

During the Procedure

  • The patient will need to hold still for the entire scan time on the table which can vary but is approximately 40 minutes.
  • You will be positioned on your back with pillows to support your neck and legs. If possible, your arms will be placed above your head.
  • The scanner bed will move slowly into the scanner and the scan will begin. The scan will be painless.

After Your Scan

  • The results will be sent to your doctor.
  • Be sure to continue to hydrate and go to the bathroom for the first few hours.