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Detecting protein losing enteropathy by Tc-99m dextran scintigraphy: a novel experience
Seema Kapoor1, Simmi K Ratan, Ravi Kashyap
1Department of Pediatrics, MAMC and allied LN Hospital, New Delhi. seemam@vsnl.com
Objective:
To evaluate protien using enteropathy by Tc-99m dextran scintigraphy.
Methods:
Methods for detecting protein loss from the intestine revolve around fecal nitrogen excretion, the clearance of alpha-1 antitrypsin in stools and by endoscopic biopsy.
Result:
The diagnosis of protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) can also be established by a scintigraphic method that is noninvasive, simple and requires no patient preparation or motivation. This diagnostic modality can also delineate the site of protein loss, thereby offering a targeted approach, and if need be, surgery. Radiolabelling of a non-protein, noncolloidal, nonparticulate and biofriendly molecule like dextran with Technetium-99m for imaging enteric protein loss was utilized in imaging eight children with PLE.
Conclusion:
The results were encouraging. The authors advocate the use of this diagnostic tool in identifying patients with PLE, particularly in the pediatric age group.