What is a Brain PET Scan and How is It Performed?
A computer receives the data from the PET detector and uses the data to create a three-dimensional picture, which exposes areas of high activity, such as, tumors or neurological diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy).
What is a Brain PET Scan?
A brain PET scan (Positron emission tomography of the Brain) is a scanning process that allows doctors to assess the activity of your brain. With a brain PET scan, you will have radioactive “tracers” injected, which they get mixed into your blood stream, then as the scan happens it will take images of the activity in the brain.
These chemicals, such as glucose (which is the brain’s energy source), all contained what are called tracers that were “tagged” on them (sugar). The brain will consume glucose faster in areas where there is more activity than in areas where there is less. This can be seen with a PET scanner, which helps the physicians assess how the brain is operating and assess any abnormalities.
How is a Brain PET Scan Performed?
You will enter the procedure room and find yourself in a chair. The technician will place an intravenous catheter (IV) into your arm. The technician will inject some special dye with radioactive tracers into your veins through this IV.
After the waiting time is over, the scan will be performed. To do this, you will get on a small table connected to the PET machine.
You will have to stay still during the scan. The technician will tell you when to stay still.
The scans record brain activity as it occurs. This activity may be in video and still images. The tracers are denser where there is greater blood flow.
Also Check: Whole Body PET Scan: Purpose, Procedure, Benefits & Patient Guide
What is the Purpose of a Brain PET CT Scan?
This test provides accurate information about the size, structure, and functions of the brain. A brain PET scan, as opposed to a regular scan, will show doctors an image of the brain that shows not only anatomy but also functioning.
It helps Diagnose:
- Screening for cancer and its spread to the brain
- Diagnoses dementias, including Alzheimer’s disease
- Differentiates Parkinsonism from other brain disorders
- Pre-surgical epilepsy
How Do I Prepare for a Brain PET Scan?
Make sure to tell your doctor about any medications you take, including prescription, over-the-counter, and dietary supplements.
- You may be asked not to eat anything before your treatment for up to six hours. Water is allowed.
- You should notify your doctor if you think you may be pregnant or are pregnant.
- You should also disclose to your doctor any current medical conditions.
Preparation for the Procedure
- Do not consume food or drink for 6 hours prior to your exam although you can hydrate (you are encouraged to hydrate, as much as you can prior to arriving).
- Routine medications are permitted, unless indicated otherwise. If you have diabetes, you may take your diabetes medications no less than 4 hours prior to the exam.
- The technologist will confirm your identification and the exam you are booked for.
- You will be required to complete a contrast screening form.
- In some cases you may be instructed to have lab tests prior to contrast being given by the doctor.
Conclusion
A brain PET scan utilizes imaging of the brain’s structure, function, and activity. The PET scan can detect areas with altered metabolism or disease in the brain or abnormal blood flow to the brain to help physicians more accurately determine the diagnosis of cancers, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease or epilepsy and help make treatment decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is a PET Scan of the Brain For?
Brain PET CT scan is to identify disorders like tumours and Alzheimer’s disease.
Q. How to Find the Best Imaging Centre Near Me in Delhi NCR?
You can simply search the best imaging centre near me on Google or call the carebox directly for consultation.
Q. Does a PET Scan Show all Cancers?
No, PET CT scan cannot detect and display all kinds of cancers. Physicians utilized other technologies and techniques to identify cancers and its kind/
Q. What is the Full Form of CT Scan?
CT scan means the Computed Tomography scan.
Q. Can PET Scan Detect a Brain Tumor?
Yes, PET CT scan can identify brain tumours.
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