What does a nuclear parathyroid scan show?
A parathyroid MIBI scan is used in nuclear medicine to look at possible problems involving the parathyroid gland(s). The parathyroids are four small hormone glands lying close to or embedded in the back surface of the thyroid gland, in the front of the neck.
What is a parathyroid scan with Spect CT?
Parathyroid Glands can occasionally be Located by SPECT Scanning. James Norman, MD, FACS, FACE. SPECT (Single Proton Emission Computerized Tomography) scanning is a technique whereby images can be obtained of diseased parathyroid glands which have absorbed a radioactive marker.
What causes primary hyperparathyroidism?
Primary hyperparathyroidism occurs because of a problem with one or more of the four parathyroid glands: A noncancerous growth (adenoma) on a gland is the most common cause. Enlargement (hyperplasia) of two or more parathyroid glands accounts for most other cases.
How long does a parathyroid SPECT scan take?
A parathyroid exam can take up to 4 or 5 hours. This time allows for two sets of images to be taken, with a 2.5 to 3.5 hour wait between sets. What happens during my exam? During your exam, a small amount of radioactive tracer will be injected into a vein in your arm.
What does a SPECT scan do?
A single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) scan lets your doctor analyze the function of some of your internal organs. A SPECT scan is a type of nuclear imaging test, which means it uses a radioactive substance and a special camera to create 3-D pictures.
Why is sestamibi scan done?
A sestamibi scan is used to evaluate the function of the parathyroid glands; these four glands are located in the neck and help manage the body’s calcium levels.
How much does a sestamibi scan cost?
At a cost of $550 per sestamibi scan and with the error inherent in the scan, it is not cost effective to obtain Tc-99m-sestamibi scan before initial surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism.