Functional brain imaging with I123-amphetamine. First experience in the Netherlands.

Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) has been used in the last five years as a method for cerebral bloodflow imaging, especially in cerebral infarction. In this study the first experiences in the Netherlands are presented. In 57.6% of our patients lesions, defined by SPECT were larger than those found by CT. This was not only seen in patients with cerebral infarction but also in hematoma. In 33.3% the size of the lesions were comparable. In 10 out of 14 patients with a solitary lesion in one hemisphere a decreased perfusion was seen in the contralateral cerebellar hemisphere. This phenomenon is called crossed cerebellar diaschisis. One patient with probably Alzheimer disease, showing a specific flow pattern, is discussed.