MIBG Iodine Scan (NM123W)

Please complete your appointment details FROM YOUR APPOINTMENT LETTER and bring this leaflet with you.

What is ‘nuclear medicine?’

Nuclear medicine refers to the medical use of radioactive tracers for the diagnosis and sometimes treatment, of medical conditions.

Nuclear medicine tests are helpful to diagnose a wide variety of illnesses. The clinician that referred you to nuclear medicine will have already explained to you the reasons for having this test.

This leaflet is to explain your scan and provide you with some general information. The procedure will be fully explained to you when you attend. We are happy to provide additional information before hand and our contact details are on the back of this leaflet.

Benefits of nuclear medicine tests and are they dangerous?

Nuclear medicine procedures are commonly used diagnostic tools that utilise ionising radiation to obtain important clinical information.

There are small risks associated with the use of ionising radiation. Ionising radiation can cause cell damage that can, after many years or decades, contribute to the development of cancerous cells. This procedure carries only a very small chance of this happening to you.

Your doctor will have considered the risk and benefits of having the test before referring you to us. The benefits of the test outweigh the potential risk.

Will it hurt?

No more than a blood test. There are no side effects from the tracer injection, and no restrictions following the test. You will be able to continue with your usual daily activities.

What is an MIBG scan?

An MIBG scan is a diagnostic procedure that locates neuroendocrine cells. It can be used to identify suspected neuroblastoma or pheochromocytoma and is often required for staging.

Do I need to prepare for the test?

YES.

Please contact us if you are taking any tricyclic antidepressants or antihypertensives.

• You should take the iodine capsules provided with this letter as per the instructions on the bottle.
• For patients 12 and under this will be arranged and prescribed by the ward, who will contact you with more information.
• If you are allergic to iodine please inform the nuclear medicine department before starting.
• Avoid clothes with metal buttons. You may be asked to remove metal objects (buckles, coins, jewellery) while the pictures are being taken. If you have any mobility issues please inform the department before attending so that we can make appropriate arrangements for you.

How is the test carried out?

This test is a two day protocol. How your test will be performed:

DAY 1:

Arrival: You will be given a small injection of a radioactive tracer, into a vein in your arm. You will then be given a return time for your scan.

WAIT: There is a waiting period of 4 hours until your first scan. During this time you will be able to leave the department. SCAN: When you return we will image your whole body. The images are taken with you lying on your back on a bed. You will need to lie still for up to 30 minutes.

DAY 2:

SCAN: When you arrival on day two we will again image your whole body and then perform an additional SPECT/CT. You will need to lie still for up to 1 ½ hours.

How long will the test take?

At least six hours will be needed from the injection to the end of the test.

What if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

It is usual to avoid radioactive tests during pregnancy. Patients who know, or suspect that they are pregnant should contact the department before attending and tell the doctor or nurse before the start of the test.

Small amounts of some radioactive substances may appear in breast milk. Mothers who are breastfeeding should contact the department before attending and tell the doctor or nurse before the test.

What happens after the test?

You are free to go home or return to your ward. There are no restrictions following this test.

Your results will be reported and available from your referring clinician/ team or GP within 3 weeks after your appointment.

Please help us conserve NHS Resources

The injection used for your test is very expensive. It is ordered specially for you and cannot be used on another day or for another patient. Please contact the department as soon as possible if you are not able to attend.

Family/Friends:

Due to the small size of the waiting area in Nuclear Medicine we ask that you please limit the number of people accompanying you for your visit.

Travelling abroad?

Please be aware that most airports have sensitive radiation monitors which detect very small amounts of radiation and may detect a residue trace from your test. We advise you keep and travel with your appointment letter if you are travelling within the next few days.

How to find/contact the department:

The Nuclear Medicine department is located on level 3, in the outpatient end of the hospital. If you have any queries or cannot make your appointment please contact the department as soon as possible on 01223 217145.