Brain positron emission tomography
Brain Positron Emission Tomography
Brain Positron Emission Tomography (pronounced: poh-zih-tron eh-mish-un toh-mog-ruh-fee), often abbreviated as Brain PET, is a type of medical imaging technique that uses radioactive substances to visualize and measure changes in metabolic processes, and in other physiological activities including blood flow, regional chemical composition, and absorption.
Etymology
The term "Positron Emission Tomography" is derived from the process it uses. A positron is a type of antiparticle of the electron. When a positron and an electron meet, they annihilate each other, resulting in the emission of two gamma rays. This process is used in PET scans to create detailed images of the body.
Procedure
In a Brain PET scan, a small amount of radioactive substance, or radiotracer, is injected into a vein. The PET scanner then detects and records the energy given off by the radiotracer in the brain. A computer uses this information to create detailed, colored images of brain structure and activity.
Uses
Brain PET scans are used to study the brain and nervous system in a variety of ways. They can help diagnose certain neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and epilepsy. They can also be used to study brain metabolism, blood flow, and the effects of drugs on the brain.
Related Terms
- Computed Tomography (CT): Another type of medical imaging technique that uses x-rays to create detailed images of the body.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): A medical imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the body.
- Radiology: The medical specialty that uses medical imaging to diagnose and treat diseases within the body.
- Neurology: The branch of medicine dealing with disorders of the nervous system.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Brain positron emission tomography
- Wikipedia's article - Brain positron emission tomography
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