Increased uptake of 99mTc-sulfur colloid in vertebral compression fractures

Increased uptake of 99mTc-sulfur colloid in vertebral bodies of two patients with vertebral compression fractures was noted on a liver-spleen scan. This finding has not previously been reported in the literature. The mechanism of localization of 99mTc-sulfur colloid in bone marrow depends on regional blood flow and increased reticuloendothelial and phagocytic cell activity. Both mechanisms are felt to be involved in these cases. In fractures, hyperemia and phagocytic activity are transient phenomena and therefore the above observations may be useful in determining fracture age.