Dear Alice,
Can you tell me what a PET scan is?
PET or positron emission tomography is a high-tech method designed to
take images of the inside of the body. Other methods include X-rays and
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). PET, although highly effective at
observing biological processes in action, requires the use of radioactive
materials (these are safe), among other processes, and is not as easy to
use as MRI.
According to the recent issue of Science News (2/17/96), scientists are
working on making injectable compounds that can bring to light, live-
action body processes during MRI. When these new contrast agents are
perfected, they will help physicians see changes in the body as they
happen as well as make crisper images. Crisper images may help
physicians distinguish, for example, Alzheimer's, schizophrenia, and
manic depression.
- Alice
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PET scan
