Use of SPECT for characterizing mental disorders

SPECT which is a nuclear scan assessing changes in cerebral blood flow, is controversial when it comes to characterizing particular injury or disease states.Larabee(2005) notes that substance abuse and emotional disorders can have an impact on SPECT results and interpretations.Unile(1992) fund that 6% of noninjures, medically healthy subjects mat demonstrate focal abnormalities on SPECT Imaging. The Therapeutics and Technology subcommitte of The American Academy of Neurology(1996) rated SPECT as inappropriate for use in evaluation of Post-Concussive Symptoms. The recommendation of this writer is to obtain a neuropsychological assessment by a Neuropsychologist forassessment of brain injury or cognitive disorders.Reliable and valid methods for assessing and treating mental disorders is not a SPECT but a Psychological assessment and psychological testing.Psychological tests are available which possess high reliability and validity.. Go forth informed about your care..stay with tried and true methods such a sthose presented.