The Future of Neuroscience
A CT, or CAT scan, uses X-rays to scan the body or parts of the body being tested. Multiple images are collected in order to form a clear, 3D image. Sometimes a dye called contrast material is injected or injested to help see certain areas. They are used to help detect injuries to the brain including: blood clots or blockages, tumors, tissue damage, bleeding. When people refer to CAT scans versus CT scans, they are talking about the exact same process. These names are used interchangeably, though CT is the "newer" term for convenience. Overexposure to radiation from mutliple CT scans can increase your risk for cancer, so both risks and benefits should be considered beforehand.
Common Technology Used Today
Computed Tomography (CT) or Computerized Axial Tomography (CAT)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI scans involve magnetism and radio waves that align the protons of hydrogen atoms. Radio waves are then bounced off these protons and produce a faint signal, which is then collected by the MRI scanner. It is an extremely accurate method of scanning and is usually used after one or more of the other scans fail to find the source of the
disease because of how accurate it is. The process is painless and does not have any known side effects. However, patients with any traces of metallic material in their bodies such as metal implants, surgical clips, or even bullet fragments should notify their doctor because metals can either distort the image or worse, displace them in the body.
Single Photon Emmision Computed Tomography (SPECT)
SPECT is a nuclear imaging test involving a radioactive, yet harmless, substance that is injected in the body, similar to PET scans, plus the technology of a CT scan. A camera then takes two-dimensional cross-sections of a certain area that contains the radioactive substance, then add multiple cross-sections to form a three-dimensional image. These images detect how blood flows through organs and tissues, such as the brain. It is said that an SPECT scan is more sensitive than an MRI or CT scan. The amount of radiation is not as high compared to an X-ray or a CT scan, but nursing or pregnant women should not get an SPECT scan.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
PET starts off with a tiny amount of tracer, a radioactive substance called a radionuclide that is allowed to be absorbed by the body for about an hour. After the tracer has spread to the areas being scanned, the PET picks up the tracer and portrays the image on a screen. Unlike the CT or MRI scans, the PET scan shows more spefically the way the organs work rather than the blood flow to them. Biochemical properties of certain organs can also be detected to help notice changes that could be the potential cause of a future disease. Cancer, infection, the size, shape and position of organs, and any other irregularities with organ functions can be detected with a PET scan which differs from what an MRI and CT scan offer. However, radiation is a concern for those who are pregnant or have increased risk of cancer.
