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Brain single-photon emission computed tomography for behavior disorders in children
1Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital Boston, MA.
Seminars in Nuclear Medicine
|July 1, 1993
Summary
Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) brain imaging reveals functional abnormalities in childhood behavior disorders. Technetium-99m agents offer advantages over Xenon-133 for studying brain perfusion during cognitive tasks.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Medical Imaging
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is utilized to identify functional brain abnormalities in children.
- Two main categories of childhood disorders are studied: primary behavioral disorders and encephalopathies with neural dysfunction.
- Radiopharmaceuticals, primarily perfusion agents like Xenon-133 and Technetium-99m agents, are used for brain SPECT.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the application of brain SPECT in evaluating functional abnormalities in childhood behavior disorders.
- To compare the utility of different radiopharmaceuticals, specifically Xenon-133 and Technetium-99m agents, for brain SPECT studies.
- To explore the potential of SPECT in understanding the neurophysiology of conditions like ADHD and cerebral palsy.
Main Methods:
- Brain SPECT imaging using perfusion agents such as Xenon-133 and Technetium-99m labeled compounds.
- Comparison of imaging methodologies, highlighting the advantages of Technetium-99m agents for capturing brain activity during behavioral events.
- Review of qualitative versus semiquantitative analysis of SPECT imaging data.
Main Results:
- SPECT studies with Xenon-133 in attention deficit disorder-hyperactivity (ADHD) suggest hypoperfusion in striatal and periventricular areas.
- Perfusional abnormalities in cerebral palsy correlate with clinical deficits, potentially aiding outcome prediction.
- Technetium-99m agents provide better spatial resolution and allow for imaging during cognitive tasks, unlike Xenon-133.
Conclusions:
- Brain SPECT, particularly with Technetium-99m agents, is a valuable tool for assessing functional brain abnormalities in childhood disorders.
- Standardization of the child's environment during SPECT is crucial for successful and reliable studies.
- Further research is needed, especially in childhood affective disorders, to fully leverage SPECT's diagnostic potential.