Which type of health condition can PET imaging help diagnose by detecting abnormal brain activity?

PET imaging is particularly effective in diagnosing neurological disorders because it is designed to visualize metabolic processes in the brain. Through the use of radiotracers that emit positrons, PET scans provide insights into brain function by detecting changes in glucose metabolism, blood flow, and chemical activity. Neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and certain types of tumors, often lead to abnormal patterns of brain activity, which can be identified through PET imaging. By revealing these alterations, PET scans can assist clinicians in making accurate diagnoses, assessing the severity of conditions, and monitoring treatment effectiveness. This capability makes PET a valuable tool specifically for neurological assessments, distinguishing it from imaging methods used for other types of health conditions.