Chapter 22 Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography

Abstract

Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) has become a widely available functional neuroimaging technique, with an expanding role in the investigation and management of a wide range of neurologic disorders. This functional neuroimaging modality complements conventional computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques, which image brain structure. The most common form of SPECT images cerebral perfusion and is therefore well suited to the study of cerebrovascular disease.Through the use of SPECT technology, a three-dimensional dataset representing aspects of cerebral function, mainly regional perfusion and neuroreceptor distribution, is generated. After intrave..