A gallium scan is a
nuclear medicine test that uses a special camera to
take pictures of certain tissues in the body after a radioactive tracer
(radionuclide or radioisotope) makes them visible. The results of a gallium
scan are usually available within 2 days after the scans are completed.
The collection and activity of gallium in
the bones, liver, spleen, and large intestine (colon) is normal. No areas of
unusual gallium accumulation are seen.
An abnormally high gallium accumulation
(hot spot) is present in one or more areas of the body, possibly meaning
inflammation, infection, or a tumor.