A PET scan detects which of the following that are emitted by glucose as it is consumed by the brain cells?
A) potassium
B) radioactive iodine
C) electrons
D) positrons

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A PET (positron emission tomography) scan detects positrons that are emitted by glucose molecules as they are consumed by the brain cells. This is because a small amount of radioactive substance, usually fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), is injected into the patient's bloodstream, which is taken up by the brain cells as they use glucose for energy. The radiotracer emits positrons, which then interact with nearby electrons to produce gamma rays. These gamma rays are detected by the PET scanner and used to create images of the brain's metabolic activity.

A PET Scan Detects Which of the Following That Are