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Neurological PET/CT

Advanced Molecular Imaging for Neurological Conditions 

When it comes to evaluating neurological conditions, having the right information can help physicians make more informed clinical decisions. Neurological disorders can affect the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system, influencing functions such as cognition, movement, and sensation. PET/CT adds another dimension to neurological imaging by providing information about metabolic and molecular activity that may not be visible through structural imaging alone. By combining PET with CT, the examination provides functional information alongside detailed anatomical imaging, helping physicians evaluate specific neurological conditions and clinical questions. Molecular imaging can complement structural imaging such as MRI and CT by providing insight into biological processes within the brain. Depending on the radiopharmaceutical used, PET can demonstrate patterns of metabolism or specific molecular activity that may support the evaluation of selected neurological conditions. 

At Tawam Molecular Imaging Centre (TMIC), advanced PET/CT technology and specialized molecular imaging expertise come together to support neurological evaluation across a range of clinical applications, including epilepsy, dementia, Parkinsonian and other neurodegenerative disorders, and selected neurological and neuro-oncological conditions. Our approach combines advanced imaging technology with specialized clinical expertise to provide referring physicians with relevant molecular and functional information as part of a patient’s overall clinical assessment. 

The choice of PET examination and radiopharmaceutical depends on the patient’s symptoms, medical history, previous investigations, and the clinical question being addressed. 

What Is PET/CT Used for in Neurology? 

Neurological PET/CT may help physicians: 

  • Evaluate patterns of abnormal brain metabolism. 
  • Support the assessment of selected seizure disorders and epilepsy. 
  • Contribute to the evaluation of cognitive impairment and dementia. 
  • Support the assessment of Parkinsonian and other neurodegenerative disorders in selected clinical situations. 
  • Evaluate selected brain tumours and provide information that may support treatment planning. 
  • Provide molecular imaging information that complements other neurological investigations. 

PET/CT findings are interpreted together with the patient’s clinical history and other investigations. PET/CT is not intended to replace a complete neurological assessment. 

Neurological PET/CT Studies 

TMIC provides specialized neurological PET/CT examinations for selected clinical indications. The appropriate examination and radiopharmaceutical are determined according to the patient’s clinical history and the clinical question being investigated. 

Neurology Studies 
PET CT - Amyloid  
PET CT - 18F-DOPA 

Neurological PET/CT Applications 

Epilepsy 

Understanding patterns of brain metabolism can provide valuable information when evaluating selected patients with epilepsy. 18F-FDG PET/CT can demonstrate areas of altered glucose metabolism and may help identify abnormalities associated with seizure activity. It is particularly useful in selected patients when additional information about brain metabolism is required as part of the clinical assessment. 

Dementia and Cognitive Disorders 

Different neurodegenerative conditions can be associated with characteristic patterns of altered brain metabolism. Brain PET imaging can provide metabolic information that supports the evaluation of patients with cognitive impairment or suspected neurodegenerative disease. 18F-FDG PET can assess cerebral glucose metabolism and provide supportive information when interpreted alongside clinical findings and other investigations. In selected cases, molecular imaging may also provide information about specific pathological processes associated with neurodegenerative conditions. The appropriate examination depends on the clinical question being investigated. 

Parkinsonian and Neurodegenerative Disorders 

Molecular imaging provides an opportunity to look beyond anatomy and assess specific biological processes within the brain. At TMIC, specialized neurological molecular imaging includes applications related to Parkinsonian and other neurodegenerative conditions. 18F-FDOPA is among the radiopharmaceuticals used for selected neurological applications and can provide information related to dopaminergic activity in the brain. The appropriate examination is determined by the referring physician and nuclear medicine specialist according to the patient’s clinical indication. 

Brain Tumours 

For selected brain tumours, molecular imaging can provide additional biological information alongside structural imaging. 18F-FET PET/CT may be used in selected neuro-oncology applications to support the evaluation of primary or recurrent brain tumours. Other radiopharmaceuticals may also be used depending on the clinical question. 

What to Expect 

At TMIC, our team aims to make your PET/CT experience clear and comfortable from preparation through completion. 

  • Before your examination, the TMIC team will review your clinical information and provide instructions specific to your PET/CT scan. 
  • The radiopharmaceutical is usually administered through an intravenous injection. You will then be given time for the tracer to distribute within the body before imaging begins.  
  • During the scan, you will lie still on the PET/CT scanner while images are acquired. During the scan, you will lie still on the PET/CT scanner while images are acquired. The examination provides information about the distribution of the radiopharmaceutical and the associated metabolic or molecular activity, together with anatomical information from CT. 
  • The duration of your visit can vary depending on the type of examination being performed. 

Patient Preparation 

  • Preparation requirements depend on the radiopharmaceutical and type of neurological PET/CT examination. 
  • You will receive specific instructions before your appointment. These may include guidance regarding food and drink, medications, physical activity, and other requirements relevant to your examination. 
  • Please follow the preparation instructions provided by the TMIC team carefully. 
  • Inform the team about your current medications, medical conditions, allergies, previous investigations, and any other relevant medical information before your examination. 

If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform the team before your appointment. 

After Your Scan 

Once your examination is complete, the TMIC team will provide any necessary post-scan instructions. Unless advised otherwise, you may generally return to your usual activities. 

Your PET/CT images will be reviewed by the appropriate specialist. The findings will be documented in a report and communicated according to the centre’s clinical reporting process and your referring physician’s requirements. 

Have Questions About Your Neurological PET/CT? 

Our team can provide information about neurological PET/CT examinations, preparation requirements, and what to expect during your visit. 

Contact TMIC to learn more about neurological molecular imaging or to enquire about an appointment. 

Request a Call

We look forward to welcoming you and helping you take the next step in your health journey with confidence.

Request a Callback Call: 80077 Email: info@tmic.ae