Pseudomembranous colitis: a possible role for Gallium scanning

A case of antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous colitis is presented in which the Gallium scan was the first diagnostic modality to alert the clinicians to the existence of an inflammatory bowel process. The mechanism of localization of the radiopharmaceutical in inflammatory bowel disease is discussed. Although colonoscopy is far more specific and should be the first-line diagnostic tool used in assessing the presence of pseudomembranous colitis, Gallium scanning may have a role in the follow-up of treatment and in cases of relapse.