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PET of infant in persistent vegetative state
P D Larsen1, N C Gupta, D M Lefkowitz
1Department of Neurology, Creighton University Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68131.
Insights
Cranial positron emission tomography (PET) revealed reduced brain metabolism in an infant with a persistent vegetative state. These findings, similar to adults, suggest PET can aid in diagnosing this condition in infants.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Nuclear Medicine
Background:
- Persistent vegetative state (PVS) diagnosis in infants is challenging.
- Cranial imaging is crucial for understanding neurological conditions in infants.
Observation:
- This study presents the first cranial positron emission tomography (PET) findings in an infant diagnosed with PVS.
- Serial PET scans using 2-deoxy-2[18F]fluoro-D-glucose were performed.
Findings:
- The infant exhibited a persistent global reduction in cerebral glucose metabolism.
- These metabolic patterns mirror those observed in adult PVS patients.
Implications:
- Positron emission tomography may serve as a valuable tool for confirming PVS diagnoses in infants.
- This research highlights the utility of advanced neuroimaging in pediatric neurology.
Abstract:
This is the first report of cranial positron emission tomography findings of an infant in a persistent vegetative state. Serial positron emission tomography/2-deoxy-2[18F]fluoro-D-glucose studies demonstrated persistent global reduction of cerebral glucose metabolism, results similar to those found in adults in persistent vegetative states. Positron emission tomography may be useful in confirming this clinical diagnosis in infants.