technetium-tc-99m-sulfur-colloid and Embolism

Dual radionuclide subtraction imaging of the spleen using 67Ga citrate and 99mTc is useful in further delineating lesions that are identified on either a routine radiogallium survey or on a conventional sulfur colloid liver-spleen image. Better anatomic localization of left subphrenic abscesses may be obtained. Differentiation of tumors and abscesses from less serious lesions such as cysts, infarcts, and hematomas is possible. We have found this technique to be generally applicable to any organ that can be selectively imaged using a technetium radiopharmaceutical, including the liver, bones, and kidneys. In addition, we are currently evaluating thallium-pertechnetate subtraction imaging in the evaluation of parathyroid adenomata.

Topics: Aged; Embolism; Gallium Radioisotopes; Humans; Male; Methods; Middle Aged; Radionuclide Imaging; Spleen; Splenic Diseases; Subphrenic Abscess; Subtraction Technique; Technetium Tc 99m Sulfur Colloid