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Insights into the Global Practice of Paediatric Renal Scintigraphy Studies

Anita Brink1, Zvi Bar-Sever2, Pilar Orellana3

  • 1Nuclear Medicine and Diagnostic Imaging Section, Division of Human Health, Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria.

Seminars in Nuclear Medicine
|December 10, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Paediatric renal scintigraphy shows significant practice variations globally, despite unified guidelines. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) survey highlights the need for standardization in nuclear medicine imaging for congenital kidney abnormalities.

Area of Science:

  • Nuclear Medicine
  • Pediatric Nephrology
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Congenital kidney and urinary tract abnormalities are common pediatric conditions requiring nuclear medicine imaging.
  • Paediatric renal scintigraphy guidelines exist from organizations like the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNNMI) and the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM).
  • Technological advancements, including single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), are influencing current imaging protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess current global practices in pediatric renal scintigraphy.
  • To identify variations and gaps in the performance and interpretation of renal nuclear medicine studies.
  • To inform the need for standardization and quality improvement initiatives.

Main Methods:

  • A global survey was conducted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
  • The survey aimed to evaluate the current state of pediatric renal scintigraphy worldwide.
  • Data on performance and interpretation of renal studies were collected and analyzed.

Main Results:

  • Significant variability in clinical practice persists despite existing guidelines.
  • Substantial gaps were identified in the performance and interpretation of renal studies both within and between countries.
  • The survey revealed inconsistencies influenced by evolving imaging technologies like SPECT.

Conclusions:

  • There is an urgent need for standardization and quality improvement in pediatric renal scintigraphy.
  • The IAEA is well-positioned to support the nuclear medicine community through education and capacity building.
  • Harmonizing practices is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning of congenital kidney abnormalities.

Keywords:
Cortical scanningIAEAPaediatricsRenal Scintigraphy

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