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Neurology-Specific Information
Molecular imaging technologies are playing an important role in neuroimaging, a branch of medical imaging, by providing a ‘window’ into the living brain. Where CT and conventional MR imaging provide important structural and anatomic information on the brain, molecular imaging (MI) technologies allow scientists to visualize and measure brain function.
Researchers are using MI to gain a better understanding of the brain and develop treatments for diseases and disorders including:
- brain tumors
- brain trauma
- stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA)
- neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis, Huntington’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia
- epilepsy and other seizure disorders
- mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, depression and bipolar disorder
- developmental disorders such as attention deficit disorder and autism spectrum disorders
- drug and alcohol addiction
Using MI technologies, research is underway to:
- understand relationships between specific areas of the brain and the functions they perform
- locate areas of the brain affected by neurological disorders
- develop new strategies to treat brain disorders
- develop new drugs and therapies
- find ways to identify individuals who may be at risk for brain disorders
- optimize patient care
Related Items
- Brain Amyloid Imaging Infographic
- Molecular Imaging and the Brain
- Molecular Imaging and Parkinson's Disease
- Molecular Imaging and Alzheimer's Disease
- AUC for Amyloid Imaging
- Procedure Standards for the Central Nervous System
- Brain Disease and Disorders Videos
- Information on Brain Diseases and Disorders
- Diagnostic Criteria and Guidelines for Alzheimer's Disease
- SPECT Imaging Information for Healthcare Providers
Featured Resources:
Imaging Dementia - Evidence for Amyloid Scanning (IDEAS) Study Flyer
Imaging Dementia - Evidence for Amyloid Scanning (IDEAS) Study Overview - download