Amyloid PET

A Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan is an imaging test that uses radioactive substance to measure important body functions. These scans can show how well organs and tissues are working, which are useful for disease detection before it is evident on other imaging tests.
 

Purpose of PET Brain with F 18-Flutemetamol

Amyloid Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging represents a major advancement in the assessment of those with cognitive impairment. The scan visualizes the density of beta amyloid neuritic plaque in the brain, which is the primary cause of Alzheimer’s disease.

Amyloid PET scan is made possible by the development of Vizamyl (Flutemetamol F 18). Vizamyl is a radioactive diagnostic agent for PET imaging of the brain. It assesses the neuritic plaque density in adult patients with cognitive impairment, and helps in the evaluation of Alzheimer’s disease or other cognitive decline.

Vizamyl is the only PET imaging tracer for detecting amyloid approved by the FDA. It provides visual interpretation with color mapping of affected brain tissues, as compared to traditional tracers which were only available in black and white.

Preparing for the Procedure

• No preparation or fasting is required
• Unless specified, you may continue with your prescribed medication
• You may be assisted by a family member or guardian during the examination should you have any difficulty understanding the procedure
• Language interpretation services are available if required

Procedure

• You are advised to arrive 90 minutes before the scheduled scan appointment  for pre-scan preparation
• An intravenous line will be in place for the administration of radiotracer
• You are required to remain in the dedicated holding area for 90 minutes after the radiotracer is administered before the examination commences
• You will be required to empty your bladder prior to the scan
• The scan will take approximately 20 minutes
   

Post Procedure

• The radiotracer will quickly decay and be excreted through the urine
• Normal activities can be resumed after the scan
• Avoid close contact with infants or pregnant women for at least 8 hours
• A medical imaging specialist will review the scans and submit the report to your doctor
• Your doctor will advise if a follow-up examination is needed

For more enquiries or to make an appointment, call  (65) 6705 2777. 
 

Reference: 
GE Healthcare 
1. http://www3.gehealthcare.com/en/products/categories/nuclear_imaging_agents/vizamyl
2. SNMMI Procedure Standard-EANM Practice Guideline for Amyloid PET Imaging of the Brain