Using a computerized radiographic technique to examine the metabolic activity in various tissues (especially in the brain); SYN. PET.
(PET) An imaging technique which enables doctors to observe the metabolic activity of the human body by following the progress of a radioactive chemical that has been inhaled or injected. PET, detecting gamma radiation given out when positrons emitted by the chemical are annihilated. The technique has been used to study a wide range of conditions, including schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.