The scintiscanning of the adrenal glands

The use of 6β-131I-Iodomethyl-Cholesterol as an adrenal imaging agent instead of 131I-19-Iodocholesterol has improved the szintigraphic visualization of the adrenals and radiation safety as well. Best results are obtained with respectively unilaterial changes of the adrenals of with steroid producing tumors. Pheochromocytomas are diagnosed by decreased uptake of iodinated cholesterol by the adrenals. Possible therapeutic application of radiocholesterol in steroid producing tumors of the adrenals is discussed. (author)