Clinical infections detected by 67Ga scanning

Gallium-67 was utilized in 34 patients suffering from clinically demonstrable infections. The isotope was able to localize infections in soft tissue, bones, and some areas of the abdomen. Its utilization in the diagnosis of pelvic inflammatory disease is complicated by the fact that the isotope is secreted into the bowel and obscures the area. This isotope is ideal for the diagnosis of acute and/or chronic inflammation of bone secondary to open reduction of fractures, and may also be of use in the diagnosis of primary osteomyelitis.