Description
Why It’s Done
A Brain PET scan is used to diagnose and evaluate a variety of neurological and psychiatric conditions. Common reasons for ordering a Brain PET scan include:
• Dementia evaluation, including Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of cognitive decline
• Epilepsy, to locate seizure foci before surgery
• Brain tumors, to differentiate between benign and malignant lesions, or to monitor treatment response
• Movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease or Huntington’s disease
• Traumatic brain injury, to assess areas of functional impairment
• Mental health conditions, in some research or specialized clinical settings
The test is particularly helpful when anatomical imaging (like MRI or CT) is inconclusive and functional information is needed for diagnosis or treatment planning.
Preparation
To ensure accurate and reliable results, patients should follow these general preparation guidelines:
1. Fasting:
• Do not eat or drink anything (except water) for at least 4–6 hours before the scan.
• Avoid sugar, carbohydrates, or caffeinated drinks on the day of the test, as they may interfere with the scan.
2. Blood Sugar Control:
• Ideal blood glucose should be below 150 mg/dL at the time of the scan.
• Diabetic patients should consult with their physician for instructions on managing insulin or diabetes medications on the day of the test.
3. Medications:
• Continue taking prescribed medications unless instructed otherwise.
• Bring a list of all current medications to your appointment.
4. Avoid Stimulation:
• Avoid strenuous physical or mental activity at least 24 hours before the test.
• Stay in a quiet, dimly lit room for about 30–60 minutes after tracer injection to minimize brain stimulation before imaging.
5. Avoid Substances:
• Do not consume caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, or recreational drugs for at least 12 hours before the scan.
6. Clothing:
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing without metal (e.g., no zippers, belts, or jewelry).
• You may be asked to change into a hospital gown.
7. Inform Your Doctor If:
• You are pregnant, may be pregnant, or breastfeeding
• You have a history of allergic reactions to radiotracers or contrast agents
