New scintigraphic examination in endocrinology

Radiolabelled analogs of somatostatin enable the visual appreciation of the distribution of somatostatin receptors. The radionuclide which seems presently more suited is 111In which can be coupled to pentetreotide. This radiopharmaceutical seems promising in particular to bring in evidence receptors in pituitary adenomas and in various other endocrine tumors. Radiolabelled antibodies in aging has now been available for more than 10 years. The clinical experience obtained during that period of time and recent technical improvements, which are detailed by the authors, make it possible to routinely use these antibodies for immunoscintigraphy and also for internal radiotherapy and for radioguided surgery. (author). 30 refs