Technetium-99m(V)-DMSA and gallium-67 in the assessment of bone and joint infection.

Abstract

The aim of our study was to investigate the diagnostic value of scans with 99mTc(V)-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) to localize bone and joint infection compared with scans using 67Ga. Thirty-six patients referred for investigation of bone and joint infection were studied. In all patients, a bone scan was obtained initially. Subsequently, comparative scans with 99mTc(V)-DMSA and 67Ga were performed 1 wk apart. Microbiological findings, pathologic findings and/or clinical follow-up (until symptoms disappeared) were considered to be proof of the presence of bone and joint infection. Technetium-99m (V)-DMSA showed greater sensitivity and accuracy than 67Ga in the assessment of bone and joint infection, although the difference was not statistically significant. In comparison with a 67Ga scan, a 99mTc(V)-DMSA scan, in combination with a bone scan, is a reliable way to diagnose bone and joint infection. Both tracers were useful in the diagnosis of bone and joint infection.