Why a SPECT scan is carried out?
A SPECT scan may be recommended to detect or monitor a variety of medical conditions and diseases such as: • Brain disorders – including stroke, seizure and Alzheimer’s disease • Heart problems – including chest pain, heart attack and arterial blockages in the heart • Various forms of cancer – such as primary tumors and those that have spread to other parts of the body (metastasized) Risks involved SPECT scans are considered safe for most people. In case a radioactive tracer is administered through injection or infusion, you may experience: • Pain, swelling or bleeding at the specific spot on your arm where the needle was inserted • An allergic reaction induced by the radioactive tracer, although this occurs rarely. A SPECT scan is not considered safe for pregnant or breast-feeding women because there are chances that the radioactive tracer may affect the developing fetus or the new-born baby. A pregnancy test may be required prior to a SPECT scan in case of women having reached childb
