Brain Imaging

BRAIN IMAGING

In some cases, brain imaging is used to study brain disorders and in brain and psychological research. Some of the imaging techniques include computerized tomography or CT scanning. This is a common brain imaging technique for strokes and other brain disorders. It uses a computer and x-rays in order to get images of the brain that are generally seen as cross-sectional images.

Positron emission tomography or PET scanning uses a radioactive tracer that can identify metabolically active areas of the brain. It does involve some type of radioactivity exposure and can be used in things like research into schizophrenia. It doesn t give a very clear picture of the brain but can locate where certain neurotransmitters are active. Figure 10 shows a PET scan image of the brain:

Figure 10.

In magnetic resonance imaging or MRI scanning, a computer and a very strong magnetic field are used to locate images inside the brain. It can give a very detailed image of the brain that can locate tumors, strokes, and other abnormalities. Another related technique is called functional MRI scanning, which tracks oxygen and blood flow levels in the brain. It gives greater detail than can be found with a PET scan and is commonly used in psychological research and psychological disorders.