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.
Additional resources:

Patient Information Sheet for FDG-PET.


PET Brain
Alzheimer's Disease

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