Diagnostic use of neuro-spect quantified with Tc-ECD a model based on normal data.

Objective: The purpose of the present study was to prospectively quantify the normal limits of brain perfusion using specific software in a group of asymptomatic young volunteers submitted to single-photon emission tomography (SPECT) with Tc-ethyl cysteinate dimer (Tc-ECD).

Methods: We used 15 MBq/kg of intravenous Tc-ECD in 30 healthy volunteers submitted to brief neuropsychological tests and a clinical questionnaire. These data were normalized relative to the cerebellum (Group 1) and to the brain cortex (Group 2).

Perfused lung volume to thoracic gas volume ratio (perfused lung fraction) in patients with COPD and in controls.

Background: The deterioration of the ventilation-to-perfusion distribution in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) reflects structural changes affecting both the airways and the blood vessels. These changes result in lung perfusion abnormalities that may be quantified by lung perfusion single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT).

Objective: To compare the perfused lung fraction (PLF) in patients with airflow obstruction and controls.