Gallium-67 scans in the diagnosis of pyelonephritis

Gallium-67 (67Ga) citrate was administered intravenously (50 microcuries per kg of body weight) to patients in whom acute and chronic urinary tract infections were suspected. Scanning was done, using both the Anger-type scintillation camera and the rectilinear scanner, 24 to 78 hours after injection of the isotope. The preliminary results imply that 67Ga renal uptake is present in patients with pyelonephritis whether overt or silent, as well as in patients with ureterosigmoidostomies. However, 67Ga renal uptake is not present in patients with radiographic evidence of chronic pyelonephritis without active infection and in patients without renal disease. (U.S.)