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What is MIBG Scan?
An MIBG scan is a nuclear medicine imaging test. MIBG scans are used to detect uncontrolled or abnormal tissue growth in the body. The process involves injecting a chemical known as an isotope into your veins.
The MIBG scan is named after the chemical ‘metaiodobenzylguanidine’ to which the isotope is linked. This isotope moves across the body and identifies abnormalities. Abnormal areas appear as “hot zones” on the scan photos which leads to identification of abnormalities.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is MIBG Scan used for?
The MIBG scan is a type of imaging test that is recommended :
- when there is a hormonal indication of a neuroendocrine tumour (pheochromocytoma or neuroblastoma)
- to determine the stage of a previously diagnosed neuroendocrine tumour.
- to determine whether you need MIBG treatment.
How are the results of the MIBG Scan Test understood?
A nuclear medicine doctor examines the scan photos and prepares a report with the results. The doctor examines the scans for areas that indicate where the MIBG has accumulated. These patches can reveal where tumours began and if they have migrated elsewhere in the body. Accordingly, your doctor will determine if you require further testing, treatment, or follow-up.
Why do I need MIBG Scan?
Your doctor may recommend an MIBG scan if he believes you are suffering from a specific form of tumour that attacks nerve cells. The MIBG scan is used to locate neuroectodermal derived malignancies such as pheochromocytomas, ganglioneuromas, ganglioneuroblastoma, paragangliomas, carcinoid tumours, and neuroblastomas.
What happens during MIBG Scan?
A trained nuclear medicine staff member will put a radioactive substance into your bloodstream. The scans will be done the following day. The doctor may ask you to return for additional scans in one to three days. The scans usually last between one and two hours each. You will be informed of any special instructions or measures to take.
How long does it take to get results from an MIBG scan?
The scan is carried out in two phases and takes around 2 to 3 days to complete. The radioactive MIBG will be injected into a vein in your arm or hand on the first day. It takes around 24 hours for it to go throughout your body and be absorbed by the cells.
What should I avoid before an MIBG scan?
Your physician should prescribe three drops of Lugol's solution three times a day before the MIBG Scan. Medicines which may interfere with the biological absorption of MIBG should be avoided before MIBG is administered. Among the medicines in this category are opioids, antidepressants, reserpine, guanethidine, calcium channel blockers, and others. They don't require any special dietary considerations.
How accurate is an MIBG scan?
An MIBG scan is a highly accurate test that aids in the detection of specialised tumours that affect nerve tissues. According to research, the total specificity of MIBG scan was found to be 96% with an accuracy of 86%. This test is fairly sensitive to the workup of patients with recurrent or metastatic pheochromocytoma, whether known or suspected.
Is MIBG scan safe?
Except for the possible increase in blood pressure, which is a relatively rare side effect, there are no major risks with taking an MIBG scan. It is uncommon to need treatment if an increase in blood pressure occurs following an injection, as most of the time it is resolved within 48 hours.
Can you eat before the MIBG scan?
Before your scan, you can eat and drink as normal. You don't need to do anything specific to get ready. Nevertheless, there are certain things that can interfere with the tracer - so you should let your doctor know if you've ever taken an over-the-counter medication containing bismuth (such as Pepto-Bismol).
Is MIBG radiation?
This radiation-containing special medication (MIBG), which looks like water, is actually a form of radiation. Radiation used for treatment can be delivered in two ways. A machine typically delivers it to the patient from outside the body. In addition, radiation can also be delivered via a central line or an IV within the body.
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References:
http://snmmi.files.cms-plus.com/docs/hpra/2010_published_OC_131I_123I_Metaiodobenzylguanidine_Scintigraphy.pdf
http://cnetscanada.org/patients-caregivers/resources/neuroendocrine-tumour-reference-guide-for-patients-and-families/
http://curesearch.org/MIBG-Scan
https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003830.htm
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