What does SPECT stand for in medical imaging?

SPECT stands for Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography. This term describes a specific medical imaging technique that allows for the visualization of blood flow and metabolic activity in tissues, particularly in the brain and heart. In SPECT imaging, gamma rays emitted from a radioactive tracer injected into the body are detected to create detailed three-dimensional images of internal structures.

The name "Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography" accurately reflects the process; "Single Photon Emission" refers to the detection of individual photons emitted from the radioactive tracer, while "Computed Tomography" indicates that this technique involves a series of imaging slices that are reconstructed into a comprehensive view of the area being examined.

This imaging technology is essential in various clinical applications, including diagnosing conditions such as heart disease, assessing brain functions, and monitoring certain types of cancers.