2.18 : 脑成像

Brain imaging refers to various techniques used to visualize the structure and activity of the brain.

CT scans create three-dimensional images, which are crucial for locating and assessing the severity of brain abnormalities.

PET scans introduce a mildly radioactive tracer into the body, highlighting metabolically active brain regions. As these areas require more blood during activity, the tracer accumulates, allowing the scan to visualize active brain parts during specific tasks or behaviors.

MRI surrounds the subject with a powerful magnetic field and uses radio waves to elicit responses from brain tissues. It produces high-resolution images of brain structure that are vital for comparative studies of normal and abnormal brain conditions.

In contrast, fMRI monitors changes in blood flow and oxygen levels within the brain, correlating these changes to neural activity.

fMRI enables real-time observation of brain function as individuals perform activities or respond to stimuli.