[Comparative studies on 99mTc-pyrophosphate and 85Sr-chloride for skeletal imaging]

In order to know the potential merits of 99mTc-pyrophosphate (99mTc-PYP) skeletal imaging, a comparative study was carried out by administering to the rabbit 85Sr-chloride (85Sr), classical bone-seeking agent, and 99mTc-PY simultaneously. Radioisotopic distribution was investigated as regards their deposition in the pelvic bones, and sharpness of the skeletal scintigrams, too. Both agents were remarkably affinitive to the skeletal system and there were remarkably differences in their temporal deposition pattern. Marked deposition was observed of either agent in the metaphyses. With 99mTc-PYP, the vertebral and costal systems were delineated symmetrically and each vertebral body was distinctly depicted as such 99mTc-PYP many possess the following merits over 85Sr; (1) owing to its physical properties, sufficiently large radioactivity of 99mTc-can be administered; (2) body burden of radiation absorption is reduced; (3) skeletal scintigrams of high quality are obtainable in a short period of time.