PET Scan
PET scan depicting the effects of Alzheimer's
disease on metabolism. The arrow indicates areas of low activity in the
parietotemporal cortex - a region important for processing language and memory.
What is a
PET scan?
A PET
(positron emission tomography) scan is a procedure used to
observe the brain, the heart, and tumors. You will be given
an injection of a low-level radioactive material and an
organic chemical. This liquid will travel to the brain and
heart. The scan shows the distribution of the radioactive
material and what is happening in the organs.
When
is it used?
The
doctor may order this procedure to find:
-
early
coronary artery disease
-
damaged or dead heart muscle
-
the
effect of drugs on the heart and brain
-
early
brain changes and diseases
-
the
cause of mental disorders, such as schizophrenia
-
abnormal tissue or tumors
-
shifts in blood distribution
-
areas
affected by a stroke or blood clot.
As an
alternative to this test, you could choose not to have
treatment, recognizing the risks of your condition. You
should ask your doctor about this choice.
How
do I prepare for a PET scan?
Follow
the doctor's instructions. The night before the procedure,
eat a light meal such as soup and salad and don't eat or
drink anything the morning of the procedure.
What
happens during the procedure?
The PET
technologist will inject a low-level radioactive material
and an organic chemical into your vein. You will lie down on
an examining table that slides into the PET machine. The
technologist will then take pictures that help the doctor
understand the health of the organs scanned.
What
happens after the procedure?
The PET
technologist will send the complete report to the doctor,
who will interpret the results.
You
should ask your doctor what other steps you should take and
when you should come back for a checkup.
What
are the benefits of this procedure?
This
procedure will help the doctor make a more accurate
diagnosis.
What
are the risks associated with this procedure?
You may
have an allergic reaction to the chemical used in the scan.
You
should ask your doctor how this risk applies to you.
When
should I call the doctor?
Call the
doctor during office hours if:
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