Childen's Hospital Boston 300 Longwood Avenue
Boston, MA 02115
(617) 355-6000
X
My Child Has:
Gallium Scan
Programs that perform this test
Nuclear Medicine/PET Division  
What is a Gallium Scan?
A Gallium Scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure that is used to detect certain cancers and infections.
thumbnail image of a gallium scan Gallium Scan Movie
This .mov animation file (338k) will open in a new window.
Download QuickTime for Windows
Download QuickTime for Macintosh
Why would my doctor request a Gallium
A Gallium Scan can help detect or monitor:

  • Lymphoma
  • Infection
  • Osteosarcoma
  • Ewings sarcoma
  • Rhabdomyosarcoma
  • Soft tissue sarcoma
    • How to prepare for a Gallium Scan?
    There is no preparation needed for this test. You/your child should wear something comfortable and eat breakfast the morning of the scan due to the lengthy imaging time of 2-3 hours. Your child may bring a security blanket/toy with them to hold during the procedure. We have various videos or DVDs to choose from for your child to watch during the procedure or you can bring one from home. You/your child will need to remain as still as possible during imaging to allow for the best quality images.
    How is a Gallium Scan performed?
    You will be greeted by one of our technologists who will explain to you/your child what will happen during the examination. The first appointment is for the injection only. A small amount of a radiopharmaceutical called Gallium-67 will be injected into one of your/your child's veins. When the injection is complete you are free to leave. The technologist will confirm your scan day and time; it is typically two to three days after the injection. The second appointment is the imaging itself. You/your child will be asked to void immediately prior to imaging. Imaging can take anywhere from 2-3 hours. Upon completion, the technologist will inform you if a follow up imaging appointment is necessary to observe bowel clearance.
    What can be expected during the procedure?
    You/your child may experience some discomfort associated with the insertion of the intravenous needle. The needle used for the procedure is small. Once the radiopharmaceutical is injected, the needle is withdrawn and a gauze bandage with adhesive tape is placed over the site of the injection. The area where the injection was given may be a little sore.

    Although the camera may appear large and intimidating, it does not touch you/your child.

    What happens after the study?
    Once the study is complete, it will be evaluated for quality. If there was too much motion, the study may need to be repeated. If there was no motion, you/your child will be free to leave and resume normal activity.
    How are the results of the study obtained?
    The images will be processed and then the nuclear medicine physician will evaluate and interpret the study and promptly inform you/your child's referring physician of the results.
    How can additional information be obtained?
    For more information about Nuclear Medicine/PET, please contact us at:

    Division of Nuclear Medicine/PET
    Children's Hospital Boston
    300 Longwood Avenue, Pavilion 2
    Boston, MA 02115
    Main Number: 617-355-7010
    Fax Number: 617-730-0623
    Business hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

    How is an appointment scheduled?
    To schedule an appointment please contact your referring physician as their office must schedule it for you. If you currently have an appointment and need to reschedule or are unable to make the appointment, please call us at least 48 hours in advance at 617-355-7010.
    		X
    X The information on this website should not be taken as medical advice,
    which can only be given to you by your personal health care professional.
    X
    X Copyright © Children's Hospital Boston. All rights reserved.