Parathyroid Scan Hyderabad | Focus Diagnostics

About Parathyroid Scan

A parathyroid scan is a nuclear medicine imaging examination used to help identify and localize abnormal parathyroid tissue. The parathyroid glands are small glands located near the thyroid gland in the neck. They produce parathyroid hormone (PTH), which helps regulate calcium levels in the body.

Depending on the prescribed protocol, parathyroid scintigraphy may use a radiotracer such as technetium-99m sestamibi and a gamma camera to obtain images of the neck and, when required, the upper chest. The exact tracer and imaging protocol depend on the clinical indication and the nuclear medicine team's assessment.

What Does a Parathyroid Scan Evaluate?

A parathyroid scan helps localize tissue that demonstrates a pattern of radiotracer uptake consistent with abnormal parathyroid activity. It may help identify a suspected parathyroid adenoma or other abnormal parathyroid tissue in selected patients.

The scan is generally interpreted alongside blood calcium levels, parathyroid hormone results, medical history and other imaging investigations. Imaging findings alone do not establish every aspect of a parathyroid disorder.

Why Is a Parathyroid Scan Recommended?

A doctor may recommend a parathyroid scan when hyperparathyroidism is suspected or has been established through clinical and laboratory evaluation. The examination is commonly considered to help localize abnormal parathyroid tissue before planned treatment or surgery.

It may also be used when previous investigations have not clearly identified the location of the suspected abnormal gland. The need for the examination depends on the patient's condition and the treating specialist's recommendation.

How Is a Parathyroid Scan Performed?

A prescribed radiotracer is administered, usually through an intravenous injection. Images are then acquired using a gamma camera at specified intervals according to the nuclear medicine protocol.

Depending on the protocol, imaging may include early and delayed views or additional images to help distinguish parathyroid uptake from thyroid tissue. The patient is generally asked to remain still during image acquisition.

The examination may involve more than one imaging session or additional views. The nuclear medicine team will explain the procedure and expected duration before starting.

Preparation for a Parathyroid Scan

Preparation depends on the radiotracer, imaging protocol, current medications and clinical indication. Patients should follow the specific instructions provided by the nuclear medicine team.

• Bring relevant blood test results, including calcium and parathyroid hormone reports, if available.
• Bring previous thyroid or parathyroid imaging reports and relevant medical records.
• Inform the team about all current medications and supplements.
• Inform the team about pregnancy or possible pregnancy and breastfeeding, where applicable.
• Follow the instructions regarding food, fluids and medication provided by the imaging centre.

Do not stop prescribed medicines unless specifically instructed by the treating doctor or nuclear medicine team.

Benefits of Parathyroid Scintigraphy

Parathyroid scintigraphy provides functional imaging information that may help localize abnormal parathyroid tissue. When used with clinical assessment and other investigations, it can assist treatment planning in appropriately selected patients.

The scan may provide additional localization information when a parathyroid adenoma is suspected. Its ability to identify abnormal tissue can vary according to lesion size, location, tracer uptake and the imaging protocol.

Understanding the Parathyroid Scan Report

The report may describe the distribution of radiotracer uptake and whether an area suspicious for abnormal parathyroid tissue has been identified. It may also include observations about the thyroid region or other imaged structures.

A qualified nuclear medicine physician interprets the findings in conjunction with laboratory results, clinical history and other imaging studies. A negative scan does not necessarily exclude a parathyroid disorder.

Parathyroid Scan in Hyderabad

Focus Diagnostics provides diagnostic imaging services in Hyderabad. Patients advised to undergo a Parathyroid Scan should contact the centre to confirm the availability of the prescribed protocol, appointment requirements and preparation instructions.

Your referring doctor or specialist can explain why the scan has been recommended and how the results may contribute to further evaluation or treatment planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a parathyroid scan?

A parathyroid scan is a nuclear medicine imaging examination used to help localize abnormal parathyroid tissue, particularly in selected patients being evaluated for hyperparathyroidism.

Why is a parathyroid scan performed?

It is commonly used to help locate suspected abnormal parathyroid tissue, such as a parathyroid adenoma, when localization is needed for clinical management or surgical planning.

Does a parathyroid scan use a gamma camera?

Yes. Parathyroid scintigraphy typically uses a gamma camera to detect radiation emitted by the administered radiotracer and produce images of the relevant region.

Does a parathyroid scan use radiation?

Yes. The examination uses a radioactive tracer and involves exposure to ionising radiation. The nuclear medicine team selects the appropriate protocol based on the clinical indication.

Is fasting required before a parathyroid scan?

Preparation requirements vary according to the imaging protocol. Follow the specific instructions provided by the nuclear medicine team regarding fasting, fluids and medications.

How long does a parathyroid scan take?

The duration varies depending on the radiotracer, imaging protocol and whether early, delayed or additional images are required. Confirm the expected timing with the imaging centre when scheduling your examination.

Can a parathyroid scan detect a parathyroid adenoma?

A parathyroid scan may help localize a suspected parathyroid adenoma. Detection depends on factors such as the lesion's characteristics, tracer uptake and imaging protocol, and results must be interpreted with other clinical findings.

Where can I get a parathyroid scan in Hyderabad?

Contact Focus Diagnostics in Hyderabad to confirm the availability of the parathyroid scan, preparation requirements and appointment details.