It is scan of the brain using a PET scanner to show whether high levels of plaques, which are a buildup of a
protein called beta-amyloid, are in the brain. It is used in adults with thinking or memory problems who are
being assessed for Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) or other causes of these symptoms.
Your appointment
Please call Registration at 866-309-0832 before your appointment if you have any change to your insurance.
This will lessen delays and the need to reschedule your test, as many radiology services need pre-authorization.
If you cannot do the prep listed below, you may not be able to have the test, or it may need to be
rescheduled.
Call the PET Center at 319-356-4100 and ask to talk with a nurse if you cannot keep your appointment or
have questions.
Getting ready for your test
Do not wear jewelry.
Do not wear clothing with metal.
Before your test, tell your doctor or nurse if:
You are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.
You have a fear of closed-in places or if you are very nervous.
Food
Eat and drink as normal. Drink enough water so you are well hydrated.
If you have any other test today where you are told not to eat or drink for a longer amount of
time, follow those instructions.
Medicine
Take your normal medicines with water before your test.
What to expect
The test will take 15 to 20 minutes. You may be in the PET Center for 2 hours.
During the test we will give you a small amount of radioactive tracer into your vein through an intravenous catheter (IV).
You will wait 40 minutes in a room with the lights on before the test.
After the test you may:
Eat your normal diet
Do your normal activity
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