Meta-analysis of the literature on diagnostic accuracy of SPECT in parkinsonian syndromes Sep 2, 2007
The mean odds ratio (with 95%CI) for presynaptic SPECT scans ability to distinguish between early PD and normalcy was 60 (13 - 277) ... The mean odds ratio for the presynaptic SPECT scans to differentiate between PD and the two APS was 2 (1 - 4), and for the postsynaptic SPECT imaging this was 19 (9-36). (BioMed Central)
Studies explore lifestyle choices and heart risks Mar 25, 2007
In this prospective, multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 55 participants all of whom had greater than nine percent ischemic perfusion defect size (or PDS, a measure of the amount of ischemic heart muscle) according to SPECT scans and who smoked more than 20 cigarettes per day were randomized to receive either 21 mg nicotine patches or placebo patches while continuing to smoke. After one week, a SPECT scan was repeated and patients were then encouraged to stop smoking and... (EurekAlert!)
Almost half of all Parkinson's cases misdiagnosed Jun 28, 2006
Sufferers of the disease should also be reviewed by specialists every 6-12 months to cut down on misdiagnoses And the 5% of patients who require an expensive SPECT scan - costing 500 - to diagnose their condition should have it. Launching the guidance, a panel of experts highlighted research providing a snapshot of the level of misdiagnosis when patients are not seen by Britain's 400 neurologists or 900 geriatricians. (Guardian Unlimited -- UK)
