Positron emission tomography works by using scanning devices using a machine with a large hole at its center. In order to detect positrons or subatomic particles emitted by a radionuclide in the organ or tissue being examined. The radionuclide used in position emission tomography scans are chemical substances such as glucose,carbon,or oxygen used naturally by the particular organ or tissue during its metabolic process radioactive substance is applied to glucose to create a radionuclide because the brain uses glucose for its metabolism. The radionuclide is administered into a vein though an intravenous line, then, the positron emission tomography scanner slowly moves over the part of the part of the body being examined.
As a conclusion, Positron Emission Tomography is a specialized radiology procedure used to examine various body tissues to identify certain conditions but also may be used to follow the progress of the treatment of certain conditions .most commonly used in the fields of neurology, oncology, and cardiology, also useful to obtain images of psychology functions. In general PET scans are used to evaluate organs as brain and heart and tissues for the presence of any disease or other conditions and also to evaluate functions and the evaluation of the treatment of cancer.
By Besy Velasquez
English Major
UPMFM- Honduras
Mind Explorer/ October, 2013 25