What are radionuclide tests?
These tests are done in the Department of Nuclear Medicine. The purpose is to obtain more detailed information about the structure and function of the kidneys.
These are minimally invasive and involve injection of a small amount of radioactive material (radiotracer) through an intravenous line and taking pictures with a special gamma camera. Common radionuclide scans include DTPA, DMSA and DRCG scan.
Depending upon your child’s clinical complaints, examination and results of ultrasound and other lab tests your doctor will decide which scan will provide the most useful information about your child’s condition.
What preparation is required before the radionuclide scans?
Prior appointment needs to be taken from the Department of Nuclear Medicine.
Your child may eat and drink normally before and after the test. Maintaining good hydration before and after the test helps in getting better images and flushing out the radiotracer from the body afterwards.
If your child needs sedation, special instructions will be given regarding fasting.
You should carry doctor’s prescription for the test and relevant investigations like ultrasound, MCUG etc. on the day of test.
Are there any side-effects of these tests?
These tests involve radiation. However, a minimum dose of radiotracer based on your child’s height and weight is used, so that the radiation dose is minimal. The radiotracer is completely excreted outside the body in 24 hours.
What happens during a radionuclide test?
A small amount of the appropriate radiotracer is injected into an intravenous line placed in a vein of hand. Then some time is given for it to reach the kidneys and taken up by kidney cells. Once in the kidneys the chemical emits gamma rays that can be detected by the gamma camera. This is transferred to the computer screen in the form of images, which can be interpreted by the examiner.
During the scan the child needs to lie still, to get accurate images. Infants and young children may need to be gently wrapped or secured to keep them still.
Does this require sedation or anaesthesia?
Usually no sedation is required. If your child needs sedation, you will be given specific instructions regarding the same.
Is the procedure painful?
Other than placing an intravenous line, the procedure is painless.
Who interprets the report?
After analysing the images obtained a doctor trained in nuclear medicine will prepare the report. You need to consult your referring physician with the images and the report.