Octreotide scan

Octreotide scan is a type of nuclear medicine imaging technique that uses a radiolabeled form of the drug octreotide to detect certain types of cancer. This scan is particularly useful in identifying neuroendocrine tumors, which often express somatostatin receptors that bind to octreotide.

Procedure

The octreotide scan procedure involves the intravenous injection of a small amount of radioactive octreotide. The patient is then scanned with a gamma camera to detect the radiation emitted by the octreotide as it binds to somatostatin receptors in the body. The images produced by the scan can help doctors locate and assess the extent of neuroendocrine tumors.

Uses

Octreotide scans are primarily used to detect and locate neuroendocrine tumors, including carcinoid tumors, pancreatic islet cell tumors, and pheochromocytomas. They can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for these tumors.

Risks

As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks associated with an octreotide scan. These include allergic reactions to the octreotide, and exposure to radiation. However, the amount of radiation used in the scan is typically low and is considered safe for most patients.

See also

• Nuclear medicine
• Neuroendocrine tumor
• Carcinoid
• Pheochromocytoma

Octreotide scan Resources
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