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Breast-milk radioactivity after 99mTc-MAA lung studies
European Journal of Nuclear Medicine
|January 1, 1985
Summary
Radioactivity from 99mTc macroaggregated albumin (MAA) in breast milk is low, allowing earlier infant feeding. This study suggests reconsidering the standard 24-hour waiting period after MAA injection for nursing mothers.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Medicine
- Radiopharmacology
- Pediatric Nutrition
Background:
- Diagnostic procedures involving radioactive isotopes are common in nursing mothers.
- Technetium-99m macroaggregated albumin (99mTc MAA) is used in various imaging studies.
- Concerns exist regarding radioactivity transfer to infants via breast milk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify radioactivity levels in breast milk after 99mTc MAA administration.
- To estimate radiation dose to infants from breast milk containing 99mTc MAA.
- To determine safe and earlier recommencement times for breastfeeding.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of 99mTc MAA concentration in breast milk from four nursing mothers.
- Comparison with existing data on radioactivity levels.
- Calculation of infant radiation dose based on measured concentrations and feeding schedules.
Main Results:
- Radioactivity levels in breast milk were measured after 99mTc MAA injection.
- Estimated radiation doses to infants were calculated for different breastfeeding resumption times.
- Results indicate that radioactivity decreases significantly over time.
Conclusions:
- Breastfeeding can potentially recommence earlier than the conventional 24-hour waiting period.
- Clinical decisions on breastfeeding resumption should consider individual patient factors and radiation dose estimates.
- Further studies may support revised guidelines for 99mTc MAA exposure in nursing mothers.