Applications and limitations of quantitative sacroiliac joint scintigraphy

Evaluation of sacroiliac joint pathology by quantitative analysis of radionuclide bone scanning has been advocated as a useful technique. We have examined this technique in 61 patients and controls. The procedure was useful in detecting early sacroiliitis but was of limited value in patients with advanced sacroiliac joint findings radiographically. False positive values were found in patients with metabolic bone disease or structural abnormalities in the low back. Normative data must be determined for each laboratory.