Scintigraphic detection of pulmonary hemorrhage using Tc-99m-sulfur colloid

Pulmonary hemorrhage, whether in the form of hemoptysis or bleeding into the pleural space, may be a life threatening problem. While fiberoptic bronchoscopy and selective bronchial and intercostal angiography are the major diagnostic modalities, these techniques are not without risks. Two patients are described-one with massive hemoptysis from a bronchogenic carcinoma; another with pleural bleeding from a torn intercostal artery-in whom Tc-99m-sulfur colloid scintigraphy accurately located the source of hemorrhage. We conclude that Tc-99m-sulfur colloid scintigraphy may be a helpful noninvasive method to increase the sensitivity and specificity of fiberoptic bronchoscopy and bronchial angiography in patients with massive pulmonary bleeding.