Irving, TX – The Amyvid scan is used in the detection of Alzheimer’s disease as well as other conditions that would cause cognitive decline. Cognitive decline refers to a decrease in the ability to form coherent thoughts and choices. Amyvid is a radioactive drug that is injected into the body and is used for Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging. It is the only FDA-approved tracer of its kind and has made the analysis and evaluation of cognitive function much easier for specialists. This evaluation could only be done using a brain biopsy before. The other option was to wait for an autopsy.

“The Amyvid scan is a great addition to the medical field,” say the radiologists. “It has proven very useful in the diagnosis and treatment of cognitive impairment.”

The drug binds to a certain protein only found in patients with cognitive disorders. This is then shown as radioactive signals and detected on a PET scanner which then translates them into images of the brain. The results that arise may indicate two different things and these are:

• A positive test shows moderate to frequent clumps of cells. It however doesn’t prove a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease but may be a sign of other cognitive disorders.

• A negative scan is evidenced by light to no clumps of cells. This result points to a reduced likelihood of a patient having Alzheimer’s disease. A doctor must then conduct further diagnostic evaluations to determine the cause of the cognitive impairment.

• The scan itself takes a little over 10 minutes but the injection requires about half an hour to 50 minutes for uptake and binding with the brain. Patients are not required to abstain from food as with other procedures. They are also not required to make changes to their daily medication schedules.

“This scan helps make a more accurate diagnosis for brain disorders,” explain the radiologists. “Doctors can then come up with a comprehensive treatment plan from the outset.”

About PET/CT of Las Colinas

PET/CT of Las Colinasis dedicated to the care and wellbeing of our patients. We understand that the foundation of a successful treatment plan – or a clean bill of health – begins with sophisticated, accurate imagery. We look forward to providing you with the highest level of care. Our imaging center is located conveniently across the highway from the Las Colinas Medical Center within the Las Colinas Cancer Center on Highway 161 in Irving, TX. and – once here – we offer hassle-free curbside parking.