Advanced Neuroimaging: From Theory to Clinical Practice

Neuroimaging uses quantitative (computational) techniques to study the form and function of the central nervous system in a non-invasive manner. It is used extensively in studies concerning brain disorders and psychiatric diseases. Clinical neuroimaging is used for identifying tumors, strokes, brain injuries, and neurodegenerative diseases. Conventional neuroimaging techniques include computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). There are two major categories of neuroimaging, namely, structural imaging that focuses on quantifying brain structure and functional imaging, which is used to study the functions of CNS. Medical practitioners also make use of advanced neuroimaging techniques to obtain functional information with respect to the pathophysiology of different CNS disorders. Advanced neuroimaging techniques include diffuse optical imaging (DOT), event-related optical signal (EROS), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), magnetoencephalography (MEG), positron emission tomography (PET), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), etc. This book discusses the theoretical and clinical aspects of neuroimaging. It will also provide interesting topics for research in neuroimaging, which interested readers can take up. This book is a complete source of knowledge on the present status of this important field.