Alzheimer’s Disease: Structural, Functional, and Molecular Imaging
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2018
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Abstract
Ever since German physician Alois Alzheimer came across this perplexing disease in
1906, later named after the physician, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is still a mystery today
(Alzheimer’s Association, 2016). Over the past century, numerous scientists and
inventors have been devoted to finding a cure for this disease (Alzheimer’s Association,
2016). A promising area of research in radiologic neuroimaging procedures may have the
potential to be the key to unlocking this mystery. These radiologic neuroimaging
procedures can be further divided into structural, functional, and molecular imaging. In
regards to structural imaging, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI) have been proven to be the top line research tools used in this ongoing
research process. Functional MRI (fMRI) and fluoro-deoxy-d-glucose positron emission
tomography (FDG PET) analyze cell activities in functional imaging. Lastly, molecular
imaging utilizes PET and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) to
follow the course of radioactive tracers to discover chemical changes of the brain in
relation to AD. The ability to identify AD through radiographic neuroimaging
procedures, monitor it through its progression, and understand the alterations of the
brain’s structures are some of the monumental research achievements. Each study
performed adds more promising information on how to combat this disease.
Description
Nebraska Society of Radiologic Technologists Annual Conference 2018
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Working Paper
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Keywords
Alzheimer's, Molecular Imaging