DMSA Scan
Mapping Renal Function With DMSA Scan
A DMSA
(Dimercaptosuccinic acid) scan is a medical imaging procedure that is primarily
used to assess the function and structure of the kidneys. It is generally used
to evaluate the overall health of the kidneys - particularly in cases where
there’s a possibility of kidney disease, infection, scarring, or presence of
any congenital abnormalities. In addition to the kidney function, DMSA scans
provide detailed images of the structure of the kidneys which is beneficial in
identifying potential scarring, cysts, tumors, or other abnormalities that
might affect the normal functioning of the kidneys.
Overview of the Key Aspects of DMSA Scan
Importance of the DMSA Scan:
DMSA scans play
a crucial role in diagnosing, monitoring, and managing kidney-related conditions.
DMSA scan helps in accurately determining how well the kidneys are functioning
by assessing filtration of blood, removal of waste products, and maintenance of
electrolyte balance. It can also identity areas of infection in kidneys and
early detection of kidney infection can help in preventing complications such
as abscess formation or kidney damage. In addition, these scans help in
monitoring the function of transplanted kidneys and can help identify
complications or rejection issues to enable timely intervention.
Procedure:
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Before the scan, patients may
be given specific instructions by the healthcare provider in regards to fasting
or hydration.
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The healthcare provider will
then explain the procedure and safety concerns of the test.
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A small IV line will be
inserted into the veins to administer the radioactive tracer into the
bloodstream.
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Patients might experience a
slight metallic taste in the mouth once the tracer is injected.
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After the injection, patients
may need to wait for a few hours for the kidneys to absorb the tracer.
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After the wait time is over,
patients will then be positioned on the examination table for the scan.
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A gamma camera or a specialised
imaging device will be then used to capture images of the kidneys.
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The images will offer a
detailed description of how the tracer is distributed in the kidneys to provide
information about the function and structure.
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In some cases, multiple images
might be taken from different angles for detailed study.
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Once the scan is over, the IV
line will be removed and patients can resume their activities.
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The scans will then be
interpreted by a radiologist or trained healthcare professional to make
informed decisions about future treatment or testing if necessary.
Benefits:
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Painless with minimal side
effects
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Provides detailed evaluation of
kidney function to manage kidney disorders such as acute kidney injury or
chronic kidney disease
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Enables early detection of
infection to allow timely treatment implementation and prevention of
complication
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Used in paediatric medicine to
assess congenital abnormalities, UTIs, or other kidney related issues in
children
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Helps in proper monitoring of
transplanted kidneys and timely identification of any complications or
rejections
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Helps in guiding treatment
measures including surgery requirements, further diagnostic evaluation, or
personalised medication plans
Patients must
inform their healthcare providers about any allergies, medical history, or
medications that they are taking. If the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding,
they must inform the healthcare provider or radiology staff so precautions can
be taken as radioactive tracers can harm the foetus or baby through breast
milk. Patients must notify their healthcare providers in case of extreme
discomfort during the procedure. Patients must also inform their healthcare
providers if they have recently undergone any imaging procedures that include
radiation to limit the exposure to radiation.
