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Dopa Scan: Fast & Precise F-18 DOPA PET CT Imaging
Advanced Molecular F-18 DOPA PET CT Scan Experts
First of all, a Dopa Scan (F-18 Fluorodopa PET CT) represents the premier diagnostic imaging tool for assessing presynaptic dopaminergic pathways in movement disorders and evaluating neuroendocrine tumors. Essentially, this advanced molecular scan measures L-dopa decarboxylase activity and dopamine transporter density in the brain’s basal ganglia. As a result, neurologists and oncologists achieve unmatched diagnostic precision.
Book your Fluorodopa F 18 PET scan at Henotic Diagnostics for cutting-edge nuclear medicine clarity. Furthermore, our accredited diagnostic centre operates 24/7 to provide seamless appointment scheduling.
To begin with, a Fluorodopa F 18 PET scan provides unmatched molecular visualization of amino acid transport and dopaminergic metabolism in the human body. At the same time, specialists at Henotic Diagnostics integrate high-resolution PET CT technology with Fluorine-18 labeled L-DOPA radiotracers.
What Does the Scan Evaluate?
Specifically, the scan evaluates striatal presynaptic dopaminergic loss in Parkinson’s disease, differentiated neuroendocrine tumors, pheochromocytomas, and congenital hyperinsulinism. Consequently, neurologists and oncologists rely on these metabolic maps to differentiate idiopathic Parkinson’s from essential tremor. Furthermore, high-precision imaging identifies catecholamine-secreting tumors. As a result, physicians can plan optimal medical or surgical interventions. In fact, to review clinical guidelines, consult the RadiologyInfo PET resource.
Furthermore, state-of-the-art Fluorodopa F 18 PET scan imaging delivers high sensitivity dopaminergic mapping
What is a Dopa Scan?
In general, a Fluorodopa F 18 PET scan is a specialized PET CT imaging procedure using Fluorine-18 L-dihydroxyphenylalanine (F-18 DOPA). Essentially, F-18 DOPA acts as an analogue of natural L-DOPA, accumulating in dopaminergic nerve terminals and neuroendocrine tumor cells. Specifically, when injected intravenously, it crosses the blood-brain barrier into the striatum (putamen and caudate nucleus). Therefore, 3D PET CT fusion scanners capture early loss of dopamine transporters before severe clinical motor symptoms emerge. Additionally, this diagnostic sensitivity far surpasses conventional structural MRI or SPECT imaging.
Overall, the scan provides full neuro-functional and whole-body evaluation based on your primary referral indication:
Key Anatomical & Neurological Structures Examined
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Putamen & Caudate Nucleus: First, it quantifies presynaptic dopaminergic nerve terminal density to confirm Parkinsonian neurodegeneration.
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Adrenal Medulla & Sympathetic Chains: Second, it detects pheochromocytomas, paragangliomas, and neuroblastomas.
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Pancreatic Islet Cells: In addition, it differentiates focal vs. diffuse congenital hyperinsulinism in pediatric endocrine cases.
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Cerebral Gliomas: Finally, it maps amino acid transport to distinguish brain tumor recurrence from radiation necrosis.
In addition, 3D PET CT fusion images pinpoint dopamine decarboxylase expression
When Is This Test Recommended?
For example, doctors recommend a Fluorodopa F 18 PET scan for clear clinical indications in neurology and endocrinology. In particular, neurologists order the scan to differentiate Parkinson’s disease from essential tremor, progressive supranuclear palsy, or vascular parkinsonism. Moreover, oncologists request this scan for staging medullary thyroid cancer and glomus tumors. In addition, nuclear medicine specialists use this scan to evaluate recurrent cerebral gliomas.
Moreover, expert diagnostic evaluation guarantees comprehensive reporting and staging
Emergency Warning Symptoms for Neurological & Endocrine Health
When to Consult Your Specialist Urgently
Ideally, you should consult your specialist immediately if you experience rapid motor deterioration, unprovoked severe hypertensive crises, or acute neurological deficits. In addition, if severe tremors accompany postural instability, prompt medical assessment is vital. Indeed, early diagnostic scanning enables timely therapeutic adjustments.
Dopa Scan Cost Guide
Nuclear Medicine Service
Approximate Cost (₹)
F-18 Dopa Scan (Brain / Dopaminergic)
First, F-18 Dopa Scan pricing is ₹20,000 – ₹24,000.
F-18 Dopa Whole Body PET Scan (NET / Pheo)
Second, whole body Dopa PET CT costs ₹22,000 – ₹26,000.
Whole Body FDG PET CT Scan
In addition, general FDG PET CT scan costs ₹12,000 – ₹16,000.
Nuclear Medicine Specialist Consultation
Finally, expert consultation fee is ₹1,000.
Comparison: Dopa Scan vs. Conventional MRI & DAT SPECT
On one hand, structural MRI shows normal brain anatomy in early Parkinson’s disease, whereas an F-18 Dopa Scan detects early biochemical presynaptic deficits in the posterior putamen. Consequently, Fluorodopa F 18 PET scan provides superior resolution compared to conventional SPECT imaging.
Chief Consultant Radiologist & Nuclear Medicine Specialist
MBBS, MD (Radiodiagnosis) · 15+ Years Clinical Experience
Furthermore, your Dopa Scan images are reviewed and interpreted by senior radiodiagnostic professionals. Consequently, comprehensive reports provide neurology and oncology teams with precise diagnostic data to optimize treatment planning.
Our Accreditations & Quality Standards
Certified excellence ensuring safety, radiation compliance, and accurate diagnostic results.
What Our Patients Say
Real feedback from patients who completed Dopa Scan PET CT imaging with us.
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“Dr. Pratibha Patil’s F-18 DOPA scan report differentiated my father’s Parkinson’s symptoms clearly. Furthermore, the report was delivered within 24 hours.”
– Suresh B.
Verified Patient Review
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“The Dopa Scan identified my neuroendocrine lesion location with extreme clarity. In addition, the imaging team was exceptionally supportive throughout.”
– Radhika P.
Verified Patient Review
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“High quality PET CT scanner, clean environment, and transparent pricing. My neurologist was very satisfied with the image resolution.”
– Mohan K.
Verified Patient Review
Relevant Diagnostic PET CT & Nuclear Medicine Services
You can book your Dopa Scan appointment at our Navi Mumbai center through multiple convenient channels: call us directly at 088793 27184, send a WhatsApp message for instant booking, or use the online booking form on our website. Walk-in appointments are also welcome based on slot availability. We recommend advance booking to ensure zero wait times.
Yes, Henotic Diagnostics Navi Mumbai is empanelled with all major insurance companies and TPAs (Third Party Administrators) including Star Health, ICICI Lombard, New India Assurance, HDFC Ergo, Max Bupa, Bajaj Allianz, and many more. We offer cashless processing for Dopa Scan where applicable. Please carry your insurance card and a valid ID for seamless processing.
At Henotic Diagnostics Navi Mumbai, most Dopa Scan reports are delivered within 2-6 hours for routine tests. Critical and urgent reports are expedited on a priority basis. All reports are delivered digitally via WhatsApp, email, and our secure online patient portal. Hard copies are also available at the center upon request. You will receive an SMS/WhatsApp notification the moment your report is ready.
Henotic Diagnostics Navi Mumbai operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including Sundays and public holidays. This means you can schedule your Dopa Scan at a time that is most convenient for you — early morning, late evening, or even overnight for emergency requirements. Our radiology and pathology departments maintain round-the-clock availability.
Yes, Henotic Diagnostics Navi Mumbai is fully accredited by NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories) and ISO 9001:2015 certified. Our radiology equipment also complies with AERB (Atomic Energy Regulatory Board) safety standards. These accreditations ensure that every Dopa Scan performed at our facility meets the highest national and international quality benchmarks for accuracy, safety, and reliability.
