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The deltoid tuberosity--a potential pitfall (the "delta sign") in bone-scan interpretation: concise communication
Summary
Increased uptake in the upper humerus on bone scans, known as the delta sign, was observed in seven patients. This finding corresponds to a prominent deltoid tuberosity and is important to recognize for accurate bone scan interpretation.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Medicine
- Radiology
- Orthopedic Imaging
Background:
- Bone scintigraphy is a common nuclear medicine procedure.
- Accurate interpretation of bone scans is crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Unusual findings can lead to misinterpretations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate an observed increased uptake in the humeral shaft during bone scintigraphy.
- To identify the anatomical correlate of this specific scintigraphic finding.
- To highlight the importance of recognizing this finding to prevent misdiagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 100 consecutive technetium methylene diphosphonate bone scintiscans.
- Correlation of scintigraphic findings with radiographic images.
- Identification of patients with increased uptake in the upper third of the humeral shaft.
Main Results:
- Seven patients (7%) demonstrated increased radiotracer uptake in the upper third of the humeral shaft.
- Radiographic correlation confirmed the presence of a prominent deltoid tuberosity in these patients.
- This finding was termed the 'delta sign'.
Conclusions:
- The 'delta sign' on bone scintigraphy represents a prominent deltoid tuberosity.
- Recognition of the delta sign is essential to avoid misinterpreting it as pathology.
- This finding, though uncommon, aids in the accurate interpretation of bone scans.