DPD scan

DPD Scan

A DPD scan is a type of nuclear medicine imaging technique used primarily to detect and evaluate the presence of amyloid deposits in the body, particularly in the heart. This scan is instrumental in diagnosing transthyretin amyloidosis, a condition where abnormal protein deposits affect the function of various organs.

Amyloid deposition as seen in a DPD scan

Background

The DPD scan utilizes a radiopharmaceutical agent known as Technetium-99m-labeled 3,3-diphosphono-1,2-propanodicarboxylic acid (DPD). This agent is injected into the patient's bloodstream, where it binds to amyloid deposits. The scan is performed using a gamma camera that detects the gamma rays emitted by the technetium-99m, allowing for the visualization of amyloid deposits.

Procedure

The procedure for a DPD scan involves several steps:

1. Preparation: The patient may be advised to avoid certain medications or foods before the scan. The procedure is non-invasive and typically requires no special preparation.

2. Injection: The radiopharmaceutical DPD is injected intravenously. The patient is then asked to wait for a period, usually around 2-3 hours, to allow the agent to circulate and bind to any amyloid deposits.

3. Imaging: The patient lies on a table, and a gamma camera is positioned over the area of interest, usually the chest. The camera captures images that show the distribution of the radiopharmaceutical in the body.

4. Analysis: The images are analyzed by a nuclear medicine specialist to assess the presence and extent of amyloid deposits.

Clinical Applications

The primary use of the DPD scan is in the diagnosis and management of cardiac amyloidosis, particularly transthyretin amyloidosis. This condition can lead to heart failure and other serious complications if not diagnosed and managed appropriately.

The scan is also useful in differentiating between different types of amyloidosis, such as light chain amyloidosis and transthyretin amyloidosis, which have different treatment approaches.

Advantages and Limitations

The DPD scan is a valuable tool due to its non-invasive nature and its ability to provide detailed images of amyloid deposits. However, it has limitations, including the potential for false positives or negatives and the need for specialized equipment and expertise.

Related Pages

• Nuclear medicine
• Amyloidosis
• Transthyretin
• Technetium-99m
• Gamma camera