PET Brain
Nuclear medicine exam to determine areas of brain dysfunction. The radiopharmaceutical used is a form of glucose (fluorodeoxyglucose or FDG.)
Indications
- Tumor
- Alzheimer's disease
Note: Tumors may be difficult to detect using FDG because of the high normal uptake of sugar in the brain.
Preparation
- PET exams require careful preparations with respect to diet and exercise. Click here for an outline of the PET preparations. (See bottom of linked page.)
- Diabetics may need special consideration and should discuss the preparation with their doctor.
Scheduling
- Wednesdays are preferred.
- Injection and scan are one hour apart.
- Procedure time is approximately two to three hours.
