Clin
Nucl Med 1992 Jun: 17(6): 477-81 Related Articles
Identification
of hypometabolic areas in the brain is using brain imaging and hyperbaric
oxygen.
Neurbauer
RA, Gottlieb SF, Miale A Jr.
Ocean
Hyperbaric Center, Lauderdale-by-the -Sea, Florida 33308
Current
neurologic assessments consider idling neurons and ischemic penumbras to be
metabolically lethargic and electrically nonfunctional or nonviable. Diagnosis,
prognosis, and therapeutics of central nervous system dysfunction require
differentiation between viable and nonviable neurons. It is necessary to
develop and document efficacious and safe technique for reactivating idling
neurons. The author presents a case study of a near drowning 12 years earlier.
Using SPECT imaging in conjunction with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) The
data supports the hypothesis that idling neurons and ischemic penumbras, when
given sufficient oxygen identified areas of cortical hypermetabolism. Delayed
imaging after HBOT (1 hour, 1.5 atm abs) suggested viable but metabolically
lethargic neurons. After HBOT (80 one - hour treatments, 1.5 atm abs), marked
improvements in cognitive and motor functioning were demonstrated. are capable
of reactivation. Thus, changes in tracer distribution after a single exposure
to HBOT may be a good prognostic indicator of viable neurons. HBOT may be
viable not only in recovery from anoxic encephalopathy but also from other
traumatic and non-traumatic dysfunctions of the central nervous system,
including stroke. HBOT in conjunction with physical and rehabilitative therapy
may help reactivated idling neurons to remain permanently active.
PMID:
1617842, UI: 92315503