Scintigraphic detection of pulmonary hemorrhage using Tc-99m-sulfur colloid

Clin Nucl Med. 1981 Nov;6(11):537-40. doi: 10.1097/00003072-198111000-00007.

Abstract

Pulmonary hemorrhage, whether in the form of hemoptysis or bleeding into the pleural space, may be a life threatening problem. While fiberoptic bronchoscopy and selective bronchial and intercostal angiography are the major diagnostic modalities, these techniques are not without risks. Two patients are described-one with massive hemoptysis from a bronchogenic carcinoma; another with pleural bleeding from a torn intercostal artery-in whom Tc-99m-sulfur colloid scintigraphy accurately located the source of hemorrhage. We conclude that Tc-99m-sulfur colloid scintigraphy may be a helpful noninvasive method to increase the sensitivity and specificity of fiberoptic bronchoscopy and bronchial angiography in patients with massive pulmonary bleeding.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Angiography
  • Bronchoscopy
  • Carcinoma, Bronchogenic / complications
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Fiber Optic Technology
  • Hemoptysis / complications
  • Hemoptysis / diagnostic imaging
  • Hemorrhage / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Lung Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Lung Neoplasms / complications
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pleura / blood supply
  • Radionuclide Imaging
  • Sulfur*
  • Technetium Tc 99m Sulfur Colloid
  • Technetium*

Substances

  • Technetium Tc 99m Sulfur Colloid
  • Sulfur
  • Technetium