Gallium Imaging in Pediatrics

Gallium-67 citrate imaging was carried out in 59 children from 3 mo to 20 yr of age. Indications for the study included the search for occult inflammatory disease and the detection and staging of malignant disease. The Ga-67 citrate scan had a 96% reliability in confirming or excluding the site of purulent material as a cause of sepsis, and 76% reliability in detecting malignant disease. Tissue distributions in children differ from those in adults primarily in that the epiphyseal plates, spleen, and thymus may show increased activity normally and in the presence of sepsis. These variations are illustrated as possible sources of incorrect interpretation. "Cold" defects may be seen in sterile collections and avascular masses. Experience in this age group seems sufficiently encouraging to continue the use of gallium-67 citrate for the purposes described.