Final answer:
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan is a medical imaging technique that blends CT and Nuclear Medicine using a positron-emitting radionuclide to diagnose and monitor health conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The procedure that blends CT (Computed Tomography) and Nuclear Medicine and uses a positron-emitting radionuclide is known as Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan. PET scans utilize radiation to diagnose and monitor various health conditions by showcasing the function of body parts. A positron-emitting radioisotope, made in a cyclotron, is attached to a compound that is consumed by the targeted body part. The radiotracer is introduced into the patient and accumulates in the specific tissues, allowing PET to generate images that reflect the physiological activity, such as nutrient metabolism and blood flow, as opposed to static images produced by CT or MRI scans.
Radioisotopes like technetium-99 and thallium-201 are among several tracers used in nuclear medicine, which preferentially concentrate in specific tissues, assisting in the identification and assessment of diseases. For instance, iodine-131 is used to target thyroid gland conditions and sodium-24 helps in locating blood flow obstructions. The PET scan process helps not only in diagnosis but also in monitoring the effectiveness of medical treatments, including chemotherapy.