Fueled by a recent evolution in technology, advanced brain imaging is enabling the early detection and diagnosis of many common brain disorders – including dementia, epilepsy, and brain tumors.
New 64-slice PET-CT imaging is the most advanced integration of two separate imaging techniques: positron emission tomography (PET), which shows the metabolism and function of cells, and computed tomography (CT) scans, which shows details of the anatomy.
“This advanced imaging technique is changing the way we understand and evaluate many common brain disorders, ultimately improving care for people with these conditions,” says Scott Britz-Cunningham, MD, PhD, Brigham and Women’s Hospital nuclear medicine imaging specialist.
Non-invasive PET-CT scanning provides highly detailed information and identification of subtle changes that can signal early start of certain brain diseases – and may not be apparent on MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or other forms of imaging. Information revealed by this technology provides early diagnosis and may help delay the onset of Alzheimer Disease through new preventative therapies. In addition, new imaging techniques provide more detailed information for early and effective treatment of a wide range of brain disorders, including:
- Dementia – PET-CT scanning is useful in differentiating Alzheimer Disease from other types of dementia, and may identify changes in the brain before symptoms occur – especially in patients at high risk for dementia. Neuroradiologists are also evaluating the benefit of using PET-CT to monitor patients who are receiving medication to slow the rate of Alzheimer Disease progression.
- Epilepsy – PET-CT imaging is used to precisely pinpoint areas in the brain that are causing epileptic activity. This technology is also highly useful in pre-surgical planning for patients who are not responding to medical treatment for epilepsy.
- Brain tumors – Treatment for high grade or metastatic tumors, those that are caused by cancer that has spread from other areas of the body through the blood stream, may be monitored using PET-CT imaging to assess effectiveness of therapy.
Neuroimaging is an integral part of specialized services at the Insitute for the Neurosciences at Brigham and Women's Hospital. Neurologists, neurosurgeons, neuroradiologists, and psychiatrists in the Institute collaborate closely to provide innovative, advanced, and compassionate care for patients with a wide range of neurologic disorders and disease, including Alzheimer Disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke, epilepsy, movement disorders, neuromuscular disease, and cancer.
Imaging Services at Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Brigham and Women’s Hospital offers the most advanced evaluation of patients through the latest PET, CT, and MRI technology coupled with staff specifically trained to use this next generation equipment. A comprehensive range of imaging services is offered at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, the Brigham and Women’s Ambulatory Care Center in Chestnut Hill, and in Jamaica Plain at Faulkner Hospital – our community partner. Areas of evaluation include neurology, cardiology, and oncology among others.
Call Us Today
Brigham and Women’s Hospital is one of few hospitals in New England to offer 64-slice PET-CT scanning used for patients with brain disorders, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and many other conditions. For more information on imaging services, please contact us at 1-800-BWH-9999 or use our online appointment request form.
