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Evaluation of reflux oesophagitis with technetium-99m-labelled sucralfate
J H van Zyl1, M G Nel, A C Otto
1Department of Internal Medicine (Division: Gastroenterology), University of the Orange Free State, Bloemfontein.
Unlabelled:
Sucralfate binds with denuded protein to form a stable complex to protect the damaged mucosa. By utilising this property, technetium-99m-labelled sucralfate can be used to demonstrate ulceration in the upper gastro-intestinal tract.
Aim:
The aim of this study was to evaluate 99mTc-labelled sucralfate in the diagnosis of grade II-III reflux oesophagitis.
Methods:
Ten patients with endoscopic proof of grade II-III reflux oesophagitis and 10 patients with normal findings on oesophagoscopy were evaluated after they had swallowed 5 ml 99mTc sucralfate. Radionuclide imaging was done until activity in the oesophagus had ceased.
Results:
Retention of activity from 10 minutes up to 1 1/2 hours could be demonstrated in 9 patients with endoscopically proven oesophagitis. In the control group complete clearance of activity was seen in 7 patients. Gastro-oesophageal reflux could be demonstrated in 4 patients.
Conclusion:
In conclusion we found 99mTc sucralfate to be a sensitive and specific method for the non-invasive diagnosis of grade II or grade III oesophagitis when compared with endoscopy [corrected].