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| Types of Brain Imaging Techniques |
Types of Brain Imaging Techniques
Computed tomography (CT, also called computed
axial tomography or CAT scan) is a procedure in
which a precise x-ray beam takes cross-sectional images
(slices) layer by layer. A computer reconstructs
the images on a monitor and also stores the images
on magnetic tape or film. CT can visualize the brain’s
soft tissues; so CT is used to diagnose primary tumors,
metastases, and effusions and to determine the
size of the ventricles of the brain. Some people with
schizophrenia have been shown to have enlarged ventricles;
this finding is associated with a poorer prognosis
and marked negative symptoms (see Chap. 14)
(Fig. 2-5). The person undergoing a CT scan must lie
motionless on a stretcher-like table for about 20 to
40 minutes as the stretcher passes through a “ring”
while the serial x-rays are taken.
