Single-photon emission computed tomography in neurotherapeutics

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Medical Imaging
• Radiochemistry

Background:

• Regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) measurement using SPECT is a crucial tool in clinical and research settings.
• Established and emerging applications of SPECT functional brain imaging exist across various neurological conditions.
• Standardization of imaging environments and image presentation is developing for SPECT brain imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review key aspects of SPECT functional brain imaging in clinical practice, focusing on therapeutic applications.
• To discuss essential components for achieving high-quality SPECT brain images.
• To explore the role of SPECT in molecular imaging, including small animal studies for drug discovery.

Main Methods:

• Review of SPECT device quality, radiopharmaceutical selection, and patient/environmental factors.
• Analysis of image presentation formats and essential image processing steps.
• Discussion of radiation safety considerations and applications in neurotherapeutics.

Main Results:

• Identified critical factors influencing SPECT brain image quality, including equipment, radiotracers, and patient preparation.
• Highlighted the expanding role of SPECT in clinical practice and research, particularly in therapeutic interventions.
• Emphasized the potential of SPECT in molecular imaging for drug development and small animal research.

Conclusions:

• SPECT is a versatile tool for functional brain imaging with significant therapeutic implications.
• Optimizing SPECT acquisition and processing is essential for reliable clinical and research outcomes.
• SPECT offers a promising frontier for advancing neurotherapeutics through molecular imaging applications.