Ladera Ranch

Researchers are evaluating whether advanced whole-body positron emission tomography PET scanners can better assess and monitor damage to nerve coverings in patients with multiple sclerosis MS. This exploratory study compares PET imaging results of MS patients with those from healthy individuals, focusing on how a special tracer, F18-florbetapir, binds to different types of nerve tissue. It also aims to observe any psychological effects in participants who choose to learn their imaging results. Participants will undergo a single PET-CT scan using state-of-the-art scanners from different manufacturers, such as Siemens Biograph Vision and United Imaging uEXPLORER. The study involves administering a tracer called Amyvid F18-florbetapir that targets nerve tissue in both the central and peripheral nervous systems. The study includes two parallel groups based on the type of PET-CT scanner used. During their involvement, participants will lie still for 10 to 20 minutes while the imaging is performed. Researchers will measure tracer activity in nerve tissue and monitor psychological health using questionnaires before and up to 90 days after sharing imaging results. The entire evaluation occurs mostly on the day of the scan, with some follow-up assessments over three months. This pilot trial includes 20 participants and is sponsored by the Brain Health Alliance.