Expert Imaging Solutions
Memory Clinic
Memory Scans
Our specialized Memory Clinic services utilize advanced neuro-imaging to look beyond surface-level symptoms and examine the brain’s intricate structure and activity. By identifying subtle changes in brain volume, blood flow, or metabolic patterns, we provide a window into cognitive health that is essential for distinguishing between normal aging and clinical memory disorders.
When It’s Used: Memory scans are critical for the early detection and differentiation of Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Frontotemporal dementia, and other neurodegenerative conditions. They are also used to rule out treatable causes of memory loss, such as brain tumors, fluid buildup, or vascular abnormalities.
The BHMI Advantage: At Beverly Hills Medical Imaging (BHMI), we combine high-resolution MRI and PET technology with expert neuroradiology interpretation. Our team doesn’t just provide images; we provide a comprehensive “baseline” for cognitive health, allowing for early intervention and highly personalized care strategies that support both patients and their families.
What is Memory Health?
Memory Health is essentially the fitness and vitality of your brain’s ability to store, retain, and recall information. Just as physical health relates to the strength of your muscles and heart, memory health refers to how efficiently your “neural networks” are functioning.
Available Memory Health Exams
We offer a comprehensive suite of Memory Health Exams on our scanner, including:
– High-Resolution Brain MRI: The gold standard for visualizing brain structure. It helps identify atrophy (shrinkage) in the hippocampus, the brain’s
primary memory center.
– NeuroQuant® Analysis: An automated software used with MRI that provides precise measurements of brain volume. It compares your results to a
database of healthy individuals your age to provide objective data on brain health.
– Brain PET Scan (FDG or Amyloid):
– FDG-PET: Measures glucose metabolism to see which parts of the brain are active.
– Amyloid-PET: Detects the buildup of amyloid plaques, a key biomarker for Alzheimer’s disease.
– Brain CT Scan: Primarily used to quickly rule out “reversible” causes of memory loss, such as strokes, tumors, or fluid buildup (hydrocephalus).
– SPECT / Perfusion Imaging: Evaluates blood flow patterns to the brain, which can help differentiate between types of dementia like Alzheimer’s vs. Frontotemporal Dementia.
Patient Preparation
Brain MRI
– Fasting: None required.
– Metal/Clothing: Strictly no metal. You must remove jewelry, watches, hairpins, hearing aids, and glasses. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing without metal zippers or snaps.
– Key Instructions: Inform your technician if you have any internal implants like pacemakers or stents.
PET Scan (FDG/Amyloid)
– Fasting: 6 hours of strict fasting. No food, gum, or flavored drinks; plain water is allowed.
– Metal/Clothing: Wear warm, comfortable attire as the scan rooms are kept cool.
– Key Instructions: Avoid sugar and caffeine for 24 hours prior. You will be required to rest quietly in a dark room for 60 minutes after the tracer injection before the scan begins.
CT Scan
– Fasting: 2–4 hours of fasting is required only if your scan uses contrast.
– Metal/Clothing: Remove jewelry and piercings from the head and neck area.
– Key Instructions: Please inform our staff if you have a known iodine allergy or a history of kidney issues.
Reports & Turnaround
Brain Health exams are interpreted by our board-certified radiologists. Final reports are typically sent to the referring physician within 48 hours. Critical or urgent findings are communicated immediately to the ordering provider.
Our Streamlined Process
How We Ensure Exceptional Care
Fast Appointments
Same-day appointments available for urgent imaging needs.
Rapid Reporting
Quick turnaround times for delivering diagnostic results.
Personalized Care
Dedicated staff providing one-on-one support to patients.
Ready to Experience Exceptional Care and Imaging?
Contact us to schedule your appointment and learn more about how we can support your health journey.