My neurologist recently ordered that I get a SPECT scan*. This is a common thing for Lyme patients so I thought I'd write up my experiences and results. Here's what it was like to get one. Later I'll post my results.
What's a SPECT scan?
From the Mayo Clinic's website here:
"A single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) scan lets your doctor analyze the function of your internal organs"
"A SPECT scan is a type of nuclear imaging test, which means it uses a
radioactive substance and a special camera to create pictures of your
organs. While imaging tests such as X-rays can show what the structures
inside your body look like, a SPECT scan produces three-dimensional
images that show how your organs work. For instance, a SPECT scan can
show blood flows to your heart or what areas of your brain are more
active or less active"
Sticking your head in the dryer
My SPECT experience was similar to getting an MRI… only quieter. A nurse injected me with some fancy radioactive isotope and then told me to lay down and chill out in a dark room for a bit while it circulated around my body. I took a nap (even though I promised I wouldn't).
After about 20 minutes of relaxing a technician, Ronald, came to get me. He attempted an overly practiced joke by saying how he knew I was next because I was glowing in the dark from all the radiation. I flipped back that I'd hoped he'd be a
hot woman because I could now see through everybody's clothes. Ron and I hit it off pretty well.
This reminds me of a quick sidenote… with all the testing I've had done I've learned to be exceptionally nice to the technical staff and nurses. Often times you get as much info out of them as you do your doctor. It's sort of like being nice to the mailroom guys at a big company. These folks are the ones that make things happen for you, treat them with respect. It'll pay off when you need to squeeze in an appointment at short notice or rush some results.
Back to the test… The machine itself looks like a giant clothes dryer with a plastic camping cot attached to it. Ron had me lay down on the cot, slid my head into the dryer and and threw a lead smock over me. He then ran some quick diagnostic/positioning tests to ensure that the imaging arms were centered perfectly over my head. From there it was just a matter of laying as still as I could for another 20 minutes. The machine buzzes and clicks a little, but nothing like the deafening German techno that comes out of an MRI machine. No ear plugs needed.
It's all very painless and simple. Even the injection was easy. I've had two MRIs in the past and each time have had very slight reactions to the Gladolinium they injected me with. The SPECT chemical is different with no chance of an allergic reaction (so the nurse told me). I didn't feel it at all.
As I was getting up to leave Ron noticed that 65ยข had fallen out of my pants pocket. I told him he could keep it as a tip.
* That's not my SPECT image above. I swiped it off the web.
