Positron computed tomography for studies of myocardial and
cerebral function
Source: Ann Intern Med
1983 Mar;98(3):339-359.
Author: Phelps ME;Schelbert HR;Mazziotta JC PubMed ID: 6219602
Abstract:
Positron computed tomography is a noninvasive medical imaging
technique. Biologically active, radiolabeled compounds are administered
intravenously to patients and the distribution of the radioactivity is
quantitatively measured. By using appropriate mathematical models and
labeled compounds, quantitative measurements of local metabolism, blood
flow and volume, protein synthesis, transport, receptor binding, drug
kinetics, and concentrations can be obtained noninvasively. This
technique goes beyond medical imaging; it allows local analytic assays
of biochemical reactions. In the heart, the technique measures local
blood flow as well as myocardial free fatty acid and glucose metabolism,
and can clinically evaluate patients with ischemic heart disease or
cardiomyopathies. In the brain, positron computed tomography can be used
to examine alterations in blood flow and metabolism including ischemia
and degenerative disorders (Huntington's disease and Alzheimer's
disease), cerebral tumors, and epilepsy. In normal persons, positron
computed tomography shows cerebral activations resulting from
physiologic stimulation (auditory and visual)