What is SPECT Brain Scan

SPECT scan (single-photon emission computed tomography) is a test that is used to study the brain. For the test, a small amount of radioactive material is injected into a vein.

A special camera (nuclear medicine camera) then takes pictures of your brain. These pictures help your health care provider to see how blood flows to parts of the brain.

The test is done to:

• Evaluate memory loss.
• Evaluate a brain injury.
• Diagnose certain conditions, including:
  • Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Strokes.
  • Dementia.
  • Seizures.

Tell a health care provider about:

• Any allergies you have.
• All medicines you are taking, including vitamins, herbs, eye drops, creams, and over-the-counter medicines.
• Any blood disorders you have.
• Any surgeries you have had.
• Any medical conditions you have.
• If you are afraid of cramped spaces (claustrophobic). If claustrophobia is a problem, it usually can be relieved with a medicine to help you relax (sedative) or a medicine to treat anxiety.
• If you have trouble staying still for long periods of time.
• Whether you are pregnant or may be pregnant.

What are the risks?

Generally, this is a safe procedure. However, problems may occur, including:

• Bleeding, pain, or swelling at the injection site.
• An allergic reaction to the radioactive material. This is rare.

What happens before the procedure?

• Do not eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before the procedure or as directed by your health care provider.
• Take medicines only as directed by your health care provider.
• Do not wear jewelry.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You may be asked to wear a hospital gown for the procedure.
• Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you have diabetes, ask your health care provider for diet guidelines to control your blood sugar (glucose) levels on the day of the test.

What happens during the procedure?

• An IV will be inserted into one of your veins.
• A small amount of radioactive material will be injected into a vein.
• You will wait several minutes after the injection. This allows the radioactive material to travel to your brain.
• You will lie on your back on a cushioned table. The test will begin when the material has reached your brain.
• A nuclear medicine camera will take pictures of your brain. You will need to stay still during this time.
• The length of time needed for the scan will vary depending on the reason you need the scan.
• The camera will record the amount of radioactive material in the brain. Different concentrations of radioactive material will show up as different colors on a computer.

What can I expect after procedure?

• Ask your health care provider, or the department that is doing the test:
  • When will my results be ready?
  • How will I get my results?
  • What are my treatment options?
  • What other tests do I need?
  • What are my next steps?
• You may resume your normal diet and activities.
• Drink 6–8 glasses of water following the test to flush the radioactive material out of your body. Drink enough fluid to keep your urine pale yellow.

Summary

• A SPECT scan, or single-photon emission computed tomography, is a test used to study the brain.
• It can help evaluate a brain injury and aid in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, stroke, and seizure disorders.
• You may resume your normal diet and activities following a SPECT scan.