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Scintigraphic evaluation of mycetoma
F J Braga1, E B Araujo, E E Camargo
1Seccao de Medicina Nuclear, Ribeirao Preto School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Nuclear Medicine Communications
|September 1, 1993
Summary
Mycetoma, a fungal infection, often affects the feet. Bone and gallium scans can help monitor treatment effectiveness, with abnormal results indicating poor outcomes in this study.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Mycetoma is a rare, deep fungal infection characterized by localized swelling and discharge of grains.
- The feet are the most commonly affected anatomical site.
- Diagnosis and treatment monitoring for mycetoma remain challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of bone and gallium scintigraphy in assessing mycetoma of the feet.
- To correlate scintigraphic findings with treatment outcomes.
- To explore the potential of these imaging modalities for therapy follow-up.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of four patients with pedal mycetoma.
- Review of clinical findings, including lesion characteristics and grain discharge.
- Evaluation of gallium scintigraphy and bone scintigraphy results.
- Correlation of imaging findings with treatment duration and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- Gallium scintigraphy was abnormal in all four patients with mycetoma.
- Bone scintigraphy was abnormal in three of the four patients.
- The patient with a normal bone scan had undergone successful long-term treatment.
- Abnormal scintigraphic findings were noted even after prolonged therapy, resembling acute osteomyelitis.
Conclusions:
- Bone and gallium scintigraphy may serve as valuable tools for monitoring mycetoma treatment.
- Persistent abnormal scintigraphic findings may indicate suboptimal treatment response.
- These imaging techniques could aid in differentiating active infection from residual effects and guiding therapeutic adjustments.