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  • Title: The effectiveness of gallium citrate Ga 67 radionuclide imaging in vertebral osteomyelitis revisited.
    Author: Hadjipavlou AG, Cesani-Vazquez F, Villaneuva-Meyer J, Mader JT, Necessary JT, Crow W, Jensen RE, Chaljub G.
    Journal: Am J Orthop (Belle Mead NJ); 1998 Mar; 27(3):179-83. PubMed ID: 9544359.
    Abstract:
    We investigated the role of gallium citrate Ga 67 scanning in diagnosing spondylodiscitis. Scans of 41 patients with suspected spondylodiscitis showed increased radionuclide uptake in 39 patients; these findings correlated with those of magnetic resonance imaging and were proved by biopsy. Two patients with negative findings on gallium scans had been strongly suspected of having spondylodiscitis; biopsy findings in these patients showed degenerative changes. Thirteen patients had negative cultures, while 22 had polygenic infections and 4 had granulomatous infections. Gallium scanning proved to be 100% sensitive, specific, and accurate. The interrater accuracy was excellent. Follow-up scans were used to track therapeutic progress. We recommend complementary bone and gallium scans in cases of suspected spinal infections. If the scan is positive, a biopsy should be done. If the scans are negative, no further investigation is needed.
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