Brain Scan Imaging MRI, CAT, PET Imaging Interpreting Functions of the Brain through Imaging – Activity Case Study – Professional Sports and Head Trauma

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) systems allow medical professionals to “see” the inside of the body with outstanding clarity. With MRI images physicians can easily identify areas of treatment, track progress and rule out serious problems with greater speed and accuracy than ever before. An MRI scan involves no surgery, no radiation, no hospitalization and has no known side effects. A magnetic resonance imaging system uses a powerful magnet, radio signals and sophisticated computer software technology. Because certain atoms in our cells respond or “resonate” lightly in the presence of magnetic fields, the MRI is able to use that response to create an amazingly clear, detailed picture of internal organs, muscles, connective tissue, and the central nervous systems.

MRI Image of a Brain Tumor – image on handout

Brain Aneurysm

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) PET imaging or a PET scan, is a type of nuclear medicine imaging. Nuclear medicine is a branch of medical imaging that uses small amounts of radioactive material to diagnose and determine the severity of or treat a variety of diseases, including many types of cancers, heart disease, gastrointestinal, neurological disorders and other abnormalities within the body.

PET is highly effective at detecting cancer, brain disorders, heart conditions and other diseases: Cancer: PET is a powerful tool for diagnosing and determining the stage of many types of cancer, including lung, head and neck, colorectal, esophageal, lymphoma, melanoma, breast, thyroid, cervical, pancreatic and brain cancers. By detecting whether lesions are benign or malignant, PET scans may eliminate the need for surgical biopsy or identify the optimal biopsy location. PET scans help physicians choose the most appropriate treatment plan and assess whether chemotherapy or other treatments are working as intended Brain Disorders: PET scans are able to detect the early onset of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease PET is frequently used to identify areas of the brain causing epileptic seizures as part of an evaluation of surgery as a treatment option.

PET Imaging Lung Cancer:

Normal Brain vs. OCD Brain Take a look at the at the difference between the brain of someone without OCD (left image) and the brain of someone with OCD. The extensive red and yellow areas in the right image indicate a lot of brain activity — too much activity. The person is thinking about something “over and over again.”

Alzheimer’s Brain – image on handout

Computerized Axial Tomography (CAT) A computerized axial tomography scan is an x-ray procedure that combines many x-ray images with the aid of a computer to generate cross-sectional views and, if needed, three-dimensional images of the internal organs and structures of the body. Computerized axial tomography is more commonly known by its abbreviated names, CT scan or CAT scan. A CT scan is used to define normal and abnormal structures in the body and/or assist in procedures by helping to accurately guide the placement of instruments or treatments.

A CT/CAT scan of the head after a traumatic brain injury. Arrow shows a damaged, empty space – image on the handout.

PET Brain Scan Imaging Activity Explain the Common Views of the Brain Interpret Brain PET Images Worksheet

Typical cross-sections through the brain and spinal cord.

Cross Section Views of the Brain - Horizontal/Axial View

Cross Section Views of the Brain - Coronal View

Cross Section Views of the Brain - Sagittal/Meidal View