Questions or Next Steps
If you are waiting for a PET scan or want to learn more about CLARiTI, please contact the study team:
- Email: Clariti@neurology.unc.edu
PET Scans
Learn what a PET scan is, why it is used in this study, and what to expect if you are scheduled for one.
What is a PET Scan?
A PET scan (Positron Emission Tomography) is a safe imaging test used to see how different parts of the brain are functioning.
It works by using a small amount of a radioactive tracer and a special camera.
In this study, PET scan help detect:
- Amyloid proteins
- Tau proteins
These proteins are associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
PET vs MRI vs CT
Both a MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and a CT (computed tomography) scan produce still images of organs and body structures like your skeleton. CT scans use x-rays and MRI scans use magnets and radio waves.
A PET scan uses a radioactive tracer that produces a video showing your organs functioning in real time.
Who Gets a PET Scan?
All participants in the Memory & Aging Study complete a procedure to measure brain proteins.
Most participants will have a lumbar puncture.
Some may receive a PET scan instead.
What to Expect During a PET Scan
Watch a short video explaining the PET scan process:
What to learn more?
Good to know
Why PET Scans Take Longer
⚠️ If you are scheduled for a PET scan, there may be a wait of 1 to 2 years.
This is because:
- There are limited PET scan appointments
- Scheduling and processing are more complex than other procedures
Optional additional study (clariti)
Interested in an Additional Study?
Some participants may qualify for the CLARiTI Study, an optional research opportunity.
What is included in CLARiTI?
- PET scans (Amyloid, Tau, Glucose)
- MRI Scan
- Blood draws
Scans are repeated approximately every 2 years.
Important!
- Participation is voluntary
- Eligibility is required
- Space may be limited
Thank you for your continued participation and for helping advance Alzheimer’s disease research.
