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Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Tau Brain Scan

Patient Education
Last reviewed

What is this scan?

It is a scan to check the density and spread of aggregated neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) in the brain. This scan is used in adults with thinking or memory problems that are being checked for Alzheimer’s Disease.

Getting ready for your scan:

  • Call at least 48 hours before your scan if you cannot keep your appointment.
    • At times, the medicine you are given for this scan is ordered from outside the hospital. It is very expensive. The hospital is charged for the medicine if you do not show up or cancel at the last minute. 

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 medications with water before your scan.

Other:

  • Dress warm. Do not wear jewelry. Do not wear clothing with metal or zippers.
  • Tell your nurse before the scan if:
    • You are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
    • You have a fear of closed-in places or if you are very nervous. We can give you medicine to help you relax. You will need a person with you to drive you home if you take the medicine.

What to expect:

  • The scan will take 20 to 25 minutes. You may be in the PET Center for 2 hours.
    • Before the scan we will give you a small amount of radioactive tracer into your vein through an intravenous catheter (IV).
    • You will wait in a room for 65 minutes before the scan.
  • After the scan you may:
    • Eat and drink as normal
    • Do your normal activity
    • Drink extra fluids and pee often

Your appointment:

Directions: 

  • Take Elevator I to the Lower Level (LL).
  • Take a left out of the elevator.
  • The PET Imaging Center reception is down the hall on the right. 

Changes to insurance: 

These exams often need pre-authorization. Letting us know about changes before the scan can help lessen delays. If you have any changes to your insurance: 

  • Call Registration (866-309-0382) before your appointment. 

If you cannot do the prep: 

  • You may not be able to have the scan.
  • You may need to be rescheduled.

 If you need to cancel: 

• Call the PET Center at 319-356-4100