Gallbladder Emulating Hepatic Haemangioma On Gastrointestinal Bleed Scan

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Medicine
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Technetium-99m (Tc-99m) labelled erythrocyte scintigraphy is a widely used imaging technique.
• It is effective for detecting gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and liver hemangiomas.
• Potential for false-positive findings can complicate interpretation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of Tc-99m erythrocyte scintigraphy.
• To assess the role of single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT-CT) in improving diagnostic accuracy.
• To address the issue of false-positive results in specific clinical scenarios.

Main Methods:

• Tc-99m labelled erythrocyte scintigraphy was performed.
• SPECT-CT imaging was utilized in conjunction with planar scintigraphy.
• Case review focusing on visualization of unexpected structures like the gallbladder.

Main Results:

• Tc-99m erythrocyte scan demonstrated high sensitivity for detecting GI bleeds and liver hemangiomas.
• An unusual case of gallbladder visualization occurred, leading to a potential false positive.
• SPECT-CT imaging provided crucial anatomical correlation, clarifying the findings and avoiding misinterpretation.

Conclusions:

• Tc-99m erythrocyte scintigraphy remains a valuable tool for diagnosing GI bleeding and liver hemangiomas.
• SPECT-CT integration is essential for resolving ambiguous findings and reducing false-positive rates.
• Careful interpretation and utilization of advanced imaging techniques like SPECT-CT are vital for accurate diagnosis.