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Bone tracer uptake in a ureteric calculus
1Department of Medical Imaging, Geelong Hospital, Victoria, Australia.
Australasian Radiology
|March 24, 1998
Summary
Technetium-99m methylene diphosphonate bone scans can detect ureteric calculi. This imaging finding aided in diagnosing and treating a patient with a magnesium ammonium phosphate stone.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear medicine
- Urology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Bone scintigraphy using Technetium-99m methylene diphosphonate is a standard diagnostic tool.
- Ureteric calculi can cause significant patient discomfort and potential renal complications.
- Early and accurate diagnosis of ureteric stones is crucial for timely intervention.
Observation:
- Technetium-99m methylene diphosphonate demonstrated unexpected focal uptake within a left ureteric calculus.
- The calculus was mildly obstructive, prompting further investigation.
- The patient's clinical presentation was initially suggestive of other conditions.
Findings:
- The ureteric calculus was confirmed to be the site of tracer concentration.
- Histopathological analysis revealed the stone was primarily composed of magnesium ammonium phosphate.
- Autoradiography showed peripheral distribution of the Technetium-99m methylene diphosphonate tracer within the calculus.
Implications:
- Bone scintigraphy may serve as an adjunct diagnostic method for identifying ureteric calculi in specific clinical scenarios.
- Understanding tracer behavior in calculi can refine diagnostic interpretations.
- This case highlights the importance of considering unexpected findings in nuclear medicine imaging for comprehensive patient care.