Describe the Process of a PET Scan

During a PET scan, radioactive material is injected into the veins of the patient. This material flows through the brain, and oxygen and glucose accumulate in active areas of the brain. The glucose is used in the active areas of the brain so the radioactive material breaks down giving off a neutron and a positron. The positron hit an electron and both are destroyed releasing gamma rays. Gamma ray detectors record areas where rays emitted which are displayed as images (‘hot spots’), showing areas of activity. This produces 3D detailed images of the brain PET scans can be used to see the effect that drugs have on the brain.