Brain Imaging

Neuroimaging—or brain scanning—includes the use of various techniques to either directly or indirectly image the structure, function, or pharmacology of the brain. 

Brain imaging methods allow neuroscientists to see inside the living brain. These methods help neuroscientists understand the relationships between specific areas of the brain and what function they serve.

 

There are four types of brain scanning in general.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) 

• MRI uses magnetic resonance to visualize the cross-sectional area of the brain. Mostly used for the functional problems of the brain rather than structural issues of the brain. Types of problems are tumor or brain hemorrhage. 

CT (Computed Tomography)

• CT uses radiation to find accurate structural images of the brain. Mostly used for locating the exact spot of the tumor or to determine the types of brain hemorrhage and stroke.

PET (Positron Emission tomography)

• PET uses a special substance that is similar to glucose to visualize cancer’s spreading area, brain activity (such as Alzheimer’s and dementia), heart activity, etc. 

DTI (Diffusion Tensor Imaging)

• DTI is used to visualize the white matter tracts in the brain tissue. These tracts connect different parts of the brain. If the nervous system has an issue, DTI is used to track down what and where the cause is.

 

Below is the link to the presentation file that has various types of brain scanning images.

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1H-Qea9j5DLKKtyCUtuTWBbKal-633pZxBEfkah_zwp4/edit#slide=id.p

 

Resources

https://fineartamerica.com/art/brain+scan

https://www.brainline.org/slideshow/brain-imaging-what-are-different-types