Whole Body Bone Scan
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A whole body bone scan is a nuclear imaging procedure that helps doctors diagnose and track several types of bone diseases and conditions. This scan uses a radioactive tracer, which is injected into a vein in your arm and travels through your bloodstream to your bones. As the tracer does so, it gives off radiation, which is then detected by a special camera that produces images of your bones.
Whole body bone scans are frequently used to identify bone metastases, or areas where cancer has spread to the bones from another primary site. They're also useful for diagnosing osteomyelitis (bone infection), certain disorders of bone metabolism, and other bone abnormalities. In addition, they can be beneficial in evaluating unexplained bone pain or swelling.
Home Sample Collection Process
Note: Home Sample Collection is only for Pathology lab tests.
Specific Instructions:
Before going for a whole body bone scan, there are some key points to remember:
- Fasting is not required for a whole body bone scan. You can eat and drink as you normally would on the day of the test.
- Inform your doctor if you're pregnant, as the radiation could harm the fetus. Similarly, if you're breastfeeding, discuss it with your doctor as some radioactive tracer could be passed to the baby through breast milk.
- If you have had a recent test that uses barium or have received an injection of a contrast material for a CT scan or radioisotope, let your doctor know, as these can interfere with the results of a bone scan.
During a whole body bone scan, a radioactive tracer is injected into a vein in your arm. The tracer then travels through your bloodstream to your bones. After the injection, you'll wait for several hours to allow the tracer to reach your bones before the scan begins. You'll then lie on a table while a special camera takes images of your bones.
A whole body bone scan is essential in diagnosing various bone conditions. It can help detect areas of rapid bone growth or repair, which can indicate issues like fractures, tumors, infections, or other bone diseases.
Your doctor may order a whole body bone scan if you have unexplained skeletal pain, a bone infection, a bone injury that can't be seen on a standard X-ray, or certain types of cancer that may spread to the bones.
The frequency of whole body bone scans depends on your individual health condition and your doctor's recommendations. These scans are typically not done regularly but are used as needed to diagnose, stage, or monitor disease.
While a whole body bone scan does involve exposure to radiation, the amount is small and considered safe for most people. However, it's important to inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If your whole body bone scan results are abnormal, your doctor will discuss the findings with you and suggest possible next steps. This could include further testing, referrals to specialists, or a treatment plan.
If your whole body bone scan results are abnormal, you should consult with your doctor. Depending on the findings, you may be referred to a specialist such as an orthopedist, rheumatologist, or an oncologist.
Whole body bone scan is a crucial tool for diagnosing and monitoring various bone conditions. By following the specific instructions and understanding the process, you can ensure the most accurate results. Always remember, your healthcare journey is a partnership with your doctor. Clear communication and understanding play a key role in this process.
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