Tc-99m DISIDA hepatobiliary scintigraphy in AIDS cholangitis
J C Brunetti1, R L Van Heertum, J S Kempf
1Department of Radiology, St. Vincent's Hospital & Medical Center of New York.
Clinical Nuclear Medicine
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Hepatobiliary scintigraphy using Tc-99m DISIDA is highly sensitive for diagnosing AIDS cholangitis. The scan commonly reveals abnormal parenchymal retention and ductal abnormalities in patients with this condition.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- AIDS cholangitis is a serious complication in patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome.
- Accurate diagnosis and assessment of biliary tract abnormalities are crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the spectrum of findings on Tc-99m DISIDA hepatobiliary scintigraphy in patients with AIDS cholangitis.
- To determine the sensitivity and characteristic patterns of hepatobiliary scans in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 16 patients with documented AIDS cholangitis who underwent Tc-99m DISIDA hepatobiliary scintigraphy.
- Analysis of scintigraphic images for parenchymal function, gallbladder visualization, ductal dilatation, and intestinal transit.
- Correlation of imaging findings with clinical and other diagnostic data (ERCP, ultrasound, CT, stool culture).
Main Results:
- All 16 studies showed abnormal parenchymal retention, indicating impaired liver function.
- Gallbladder nonvisualization occurred in 9 patients, and delayed visualization in 2.
- Three distinct scintigraphic patterns were identified, all involving parenchymal retention and varying degrees of ductal abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- Tc-99m DISIDA hepatobiliary scintigraphy is a sensitive imaging modality for evaluating AIDS cholangitis.
- The most common findings include parenchymal retention and ductal abnormalities, although a spectrum of patterns may be observed.
