IMAGING OF BRAIN-TUMORS AFTER ADMINISTRATION OF L-(N-13)-LABELED GLUTAMATE - CONCISE COMMUNICATION

Abstract

Cyclotron-produced L-(N-13)glutamate was used to visualize malignant intracranial tumors in 12 pediatric patients who had evidence of recurrent disease as documented by computed transaxial tomography (TCT). Imaging was performed using a rectilinear scanner, gamma camera or a positron-emission tomograph (PET). Apparently, N-13 is rapidly taken up by a majority of brain tumors following the administration of L-(N-13)glutamate and N-13 uptake is correlated with breakdown of the blood-brain barrier as demonstrated by contrast TCT or pertechnetate (99mTc) studies. The feasibility of using this agent in conjunction with PET is established.