What is a CERIANNA PET Scan?

A CERIANNA PET scan is an advanced imaging technique designed to evaluate estrogen receptor (ER) activity in breast cancer. This scan uses a specialized radiotracer called CERIANNA® (fluoroestradiol F 18), which binds to estrogen receptors in cancer cells, helping doctors assess how the disease behaves and plan more personalized treatment strategies.

What is CERIANNA Used For?

• Identify Estrogen Receptor Activity: Determine if breast cancer cells have active estrogen receptors.
• Guide Hormone Therapy Decisions: Help doctors choose whether hormone therapy is an effective treatment option.
• Detect Metastases: Evaluate whether ER-positive breast cancer has spread to other areas.

This test is particularly valuable for ER-positive breast cancer, a type of cancer that relies on estrogen to grow.

How Does CERIANNA Work?

CERIANNA uses a radiotracer (fluoroestradiol F 18) that mimics natural estrogen. When injected, this tracer binds to estrogen receptors in the body. Areas with a high concentration of estrogen receptors, such as ER-positive breast cancer cells, "light up" during the PET scan, providing a clear and detailed image of the cancer's activity.

What to Expect During a CERIANNA PET Scan

1. Preparation: No fasting is typically required, but you should avoid any medications that could interfere with the test. Inform your doctor about your medical history, medications, or recent scans.
2. Tracer Injection: A small amount of CERIANNA is injected into your vein. You’ll wait about 60 minutes for the tracer to travel and bind to estrogen receptors.
3. The Scan: You’ll lie on a scanning table that moves through the PET machine. The scan itself takes 30–40 minutes and is painless.
4. After the Scan: Drink plenty of fluids to flush the tracer out of your body. You can resume your normal activities unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Why Choose CERIANNA PET Scans?

• Targeted Imaging: Provides precise insights into ER-positive breast cancer.
• Personalized Treatment Planning: Helps doctors determine if hormone therapy is the right approach.
• Non-Invasive: Safe and painless imaging method with minimal risks.
• Enhanced Monitoring: Tracks how the cancer responds to treatment over time.

Is CERIANNA Safe?

Yes, CERIANNA PET scans are considered safe. The radioactive tracer involves a small amount of radiation, well within diagnostic safety limits. However, you should inform your doctor if you are:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding: The scan may not be recommended.
• Allergic to radiotracers: Although rare, some individuals may experience reactions.

Who Should Consider a CERIANNA PET Scan?

CERIANNA PET scans are ideal for:

• Patients with ER-positive breast cancer who are being considered for hormone therapy.
• Individuals with suspected cancer recurrence or metastases.
• Patients whose treatment plans require a deeper understanding of estrogen receptor activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does the entire process take?

The entire scan, including preparation and imaging, typically takes about 2–3 hours.

2. Will my insurance cover CERIANNA PET scans?

Coverage depends on your insurance plan. Many plans cover CERIANNA scans when deemed medically necessary.

3. Are there any side effects?

Side effects are rare but may include mild discomfort at the injection site.

4. Can CERIANNA be used for other cancers?

CERIANNA is primarily approved for breast cancer but may be studied for other estrogen-receptor-positive cancers.

Talk to Your Doctor

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer, a CERIANNA PET scan may provide critical information to guide your treatment. Talk to your doctor to see if this advanced imaging test is right for you.