Purpose of Technology: Positron emission tomography (PET) is a 3-dimensional (3D) nuclear imaging technique that measures the level of physiologic and biochemical activity or other organic function in an organ or tissue by reflecting the distribution of a radiotracer that has been administered to the patient. PET has been proposed as a method for diagnosing and predicting development of Alzheimer disease (AD).

Relevant Questions:

  • Is PET an accurate diagnostic test for detection or prediction of the development of AD?

  • How does PET compare with other techniques?

  • What is the impact of PET on clinical management and health outcomes?

  • Are there any safety issues associated with the use of PET for detection or the prediction of AD development?

  • Have definitive patient selection criteria been established for PET imaging for AD?

If you have a Hayes login, click here to view the full report on the Knowledge Center.