Radiology Practice Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

A typical indicator for the use of PET scans is functional imaging of metabolic processes. This technique evaluates how tissues and organs are functioning on a biochemical level, rather than just providing structural information. PET scans are particularly effective for detecting areas of increased metabolic activity, which is often seen in cancerous tissues because they tend to consume more glucose than normal tissues. By using a radioactive tracer that emits positrons, PET scans can visualize the uptake of this tracer, thereby allowing healthcare professionals to assess not just the presence of disease but also the biological processes occurring within the body.

In contrast, bone density analysis, assessment of lung function, and soft tissue injury evaluation are not areas where PET scans are typically utilized. Bone density is more commonly assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans, lung function is usually evaluated through pulmonary function tests, and soft tissue injuries are often diagnosed with MRI or ultrasound techniques that provide detailed images of the soft tissue structures. Thus, functional imaging of metabolic processes through PET scans distinguishes it from the other options presented.