Common Indications (specific Uses) of Gallium-67 Imaging
- Whole-body survey to localize source of fever in patients with Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO).
- Detection of pulmonary and mediastinal inflammation/infection, especially in the immunocompromised patient.
- Evaluation and follow-up of active lymphocytic or granulomatous inflammatory processes such as sarcoidosis or tuberculosis.
- Diagnosing vertebral osteomyelitis and/or disk space infection where Ga-67 is preferred over labeled leukocytes.
- Diagnosis and follow-up of medical treatment of retroperitoneal fibrosis.
- Evaluation and follow-up of drug-induced pulmonary toxicity (e.g. Bleomycin, Amiodarone)
- Evaluation of patients who are not candidates for WBC scans (WBC count less than 6,000 and/or poor IV access).
Note that all of these conditions are also seen in PET scans using the less common positron-emitting isotope gallium-68, which has the same chemical characteristics as Ga-67. See gallium-68 generator.
Read more about this topic: Gallium 67 Scan
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