Why is this procedure done?
Your doctor may order this test to look for infections or inflammation in your body. It is helpful when there is worry of infection hidden in your bones or belly area. � �
What will the results be?
A special radioactive matter called indium is used. It is mixed with your white blood cells. These are the cells that fight infection. The white blood cells collect where there is an infection. A special camera is used to see the cells and the radioactive matter. This may show the doctor where the infection is found. � �
What happens before the procedure?
Tell your doctor if you: � �
- Are taking antibiotics. Be sure to tell your doctor about all drugs you are taking.
- Are allergic to dye or shellfish. You may be given a dye called "contrast " � for this procedure.
- Have had a gallium scan within the month before this test.
- Have diabetes.
- Are on dialysis, total parenteral nutrition (I.V. nutrition), or steroid therapy.
- Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
- Are nursing.
You will need to: � �
- Remove jewelry, dentures, or any metal in your body.
- Wear a hospital gown or loose-fitting clothes.
What happens during the procedure?
- The staff will take a small amount of blood from your arm. Pressure and a bandage will stop any bleeding. This will only take a few minutes.
- They will mix your blood sample with the indium. This may take 2 to 3 hours. Next, your blood will be given back to you. You will come back in about 24 hours for more pictures to be taken.
- When you come back, you will sit or lie very still for more pictures. When the scan is done, you may go home. This may take 1 to 2 hours.
What happens after the procedure?
Your doctor will check the pictures after the exam is finished and tell you the results. Over the next few days, your body will get rid of the indium on its own. The amount of radiation in this test is far less than a normal chest x-ray. It poses no danger to anyone in your home. � �
What care is needed at home?
You are able to go back to your normal activities and diet after the test. � �
What follow-up care is needed?
You may need other procedures to back up the results of your test. Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. � �
What problems could happen?
Rarely, allergy to the radioisotope may happen. Call your doctor if you are worried about your condition related to the test. It takes a couple of days for the body to get rid of all of the indium. You may set off radiation alarms, like those found in airport security, for a couple of days after the test. � �
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. � �
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Copyright � � 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. � �