Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
CT scans (computed tomography) use X-ray technology to create detailed cross-sectional images of the brain. They are useful for detecting structural abnormalities such as tumors or bleeding.
Related terms
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): This imaging technique uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the brain's soft tissues, including differentiating between healthy and diseased tissue.
PET scan (positron emission tomography): A PET scan involves injecting a small amount of radioactive substance into the body to measure metabolic activity in different regions of the brain.
EEG (electroencephalogram): An EEG records electrical activity in the form of brain waves using electrodes placed on the scalp, providing information about overall patterns of brain activity.