PET scan

• What does PET stand for in PET Scan?

  Positron Emission Tomography
• How does a PET scan work?

  A PET scan works by injecting a small amount of radioactive material into the patient.
• What is the radioactive material used in a PET scan?

  Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)
• Why is fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) used in a PET scan?

  FDG is a tracer substance that the brain takes up as a form of energy.
• What happens to the radioactive atoms in the bloodstream during a PET scan?

  The radioactive atoms start breaking down to emit positrons, producing gamma rays.
• What do high counts of gamma rays indicate in a PET scan?

  High counts of gamma rays indicate areas of high activity where lots of glucose was used.
• What colors represent high activity in a PET scan?

  High activity is represented by colors like red and blue.
• How does the radiation dose of a PET scan compare to a CAT scan?

  A PET scan has a higher dose of radiation compared to a CAT scan.
• What can a PET scan investigate in the brain?


  A PET scan can investigate areas of the brain that are not functioning normally, which could show damage or tumors.
• What is one strength of a PET scan?

  A strength of a PET scan is that it can detect areas of damage where the brain shows abnormal activity.
• What is a disadvantage of a PET scan?

  A disadvantage of a PET scan is that it is more invasive than a CAT scan and requires injection of a radioactive substance.
• What is the risk associated with PET scans?

  The risk is low due to the low level of radioactive substance, but it is advisable not to have too many scans unless necessary.
• What is unclear regarding the use of PET scans?

  The long-term effects of having too many PET scans are unclear.
• What are the main steps involved in a PET scan procedure?

  • Injection of radioactive material (FDG)
  • Uptake of FDG by the brain
  • Emission of positrons and gamma rays
  • Detection of gamma rays by the scanner
  • Analysis of brain activity based on gamma ray distribution
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of PET scans?

  Strengths:

  • Detects areas of brain damage
  • Predicts potential issues related to brain activity

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • More invasive than CAT scans
  • Requires injection of radioactive substance
  • Low risk but still advisable to limit frequency