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Background Facts

Imaging Techniques

Is it possible to study blood flow to the heart or brain?

PET scans provide information about blood flow to the heart muscle and brain. They may help evaluate signs of coronary heart disease and reasons for decreased function in certain areas of the heart. PET scans of the brain may detect tumors or other neurological disorders, including certain behavioral health disorders. Studies of the brain using PET scans have identified parts of the brain that are affected by epilepsy and seizures, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke. In addition, they have been used to identify specific regions of the healthy brain that are active during certain tasks.