Evaluation of reflux oesophagitis with technetium-99m-labelled sucralfate

Sucralfate binds with denuded protein to form a stable complex to protect the damaged mucosa. By utilising this property, technetium-99m-labelled sucralfate can be used to demonstrate ulceration in the upper gastro-intestinal tract. The aim of this study was to evaluate 99mTc-labelled sucralfate in the diagnosis of grade II-III reflux oesophagitis. Ten patients with endoscopic proof of grade II-III reflux oesophagitis and 10 patients with normal findings on oesophagoscopy were evaluated after they had swallowed 5 ml 99mTc sucralfate. Radionuclide imaging was done until activity in the oesophagus had ceased. Retention of activity from 10 minutes up to 1 1/2 hours could be demonstrated in 9 patients with endoscopically proven oesophagitis. In the control group complete clearance of activity was seen in 7 patients. Gastro-oesophageal reflux could be demonstrated in 4 patients. In conclusion we found 99mTc sucralfate to be a sensitive and specific method for the non-invasive diagnosis of grade II or grade III oesophagitis when compared with endoscopy [corrected].