Significance of delayed 67Ga localization in the kidneys

One hundred and seventy-five 67Ga-citrate scans were performed to detect suspected occult inflammatory processes. None of the patients had a known malignancy. Renal activity was noted in 12 patients (6.8%) on the 48-hr image. These patients had either pyelonephritis, acute tubular necrosis, vasculitis, or a renal abscess. Since delayed 67Ga uptake in the kidneys may be the first evidence of renal disease, further investigation, including either arteriography or biopsy, is necessary. In patients with a known malignancy, tumor involvement must be considered.