Among all the clinical indications for which radiologists, nuclear medicine phy- cians, neurologists, neurosurgeons, psychiatrists (and others examining disorders of the brain) order and read brain PET scans, demand is greatest for those pertaining to dementia and related disorders. This demand is driven by the sheer prevalence of those conditions, coupled with the fact that the differential diagnosis for causes of cognitive impairment is wide and often difficult to distinguish clinically. The conceptual framework by which evaluation and management of dementia is guided has evolved considerably during the last decade. Although we still are far from having ideal tests or dramatic cures for any of the established causes of dementia, our options have expanded with respect to both the diagnostic and the- peutic tools now available. In the first chapter of this book, the contribution and limitations of different elements of the clinical examination for diagnosis of cog- tive symptoms are described, and the roles of structural and functional neuroim- ing in the clinical workup are given context.

This practical guide contains all the science and clinical information needed to help the reader make informed decisions about the applications of brain PET to improve the care of patients with symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. Beginning with an introduction to goals and limitations of the clinical evaluation of dementia, Dr. Dan Silverman and his distinguished group of contributors provide in-depth coverage of functional imaging, clinical interpretation, and evaluation. There is also a complete collection of clinical cases. The text is enhanced with numerous PET brain scans.

Imaging Applications in Current Clinical Practice.- Clinical Evaluation of Dementia and When to Perform PET.- Clinical Interpretation of Brain PET Scans: Performing Visual Assessments, Providing Quantifying Data, and Generating Integrated Reports.- FDG PET in the Evaluation of Mild Cognitive Impairment and Early Dementia.- PET and SPECT in the Evaluation of Patients with Central Motor Disorders.- Emerging Approaches Using PET.- Microstructural Imaging of Neurodegenerative Changes.- Amyloid Imaging with PET in Alzheimer¿s Disease, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Clinically Unimpaired Subjects.- Atlas.- Interpretive Practice Atlas.