What is one of the key purposes of PET imaging in clinical practice?

Identifying tumors is a key purpose of PET imaging in clinical practice due to the technology's ability to highlight metabolic activity within the body. Unlike other imaging modalities, PET scans visualize functional processes by detecting gamma rays emitted from radioactive tracers introduced into the body, commonly using glucose analogs that tumor cells preferentially uptake. Tumors often exhibit increased metabolic activity compared to normal tissues, making PET highly effective in locating malignancies, determining the extent of disease, and evaluating treatment response. This functional information complements anatomical imaging techniques, providing a more comprehensive assessment of cancer. Thus, the ability of PET to identify tumors is a critical application in oncology, guiding diagnosis, treatment planning, and follow-up care.