Splenic Sequestration of Red Blood Cells: A Computerized Approach Using Two Radionuclides

The current method for measurement of red blood cell sequestration by the spleen is subject to many inaccuracies. Because of the poor imaging properties of Cr, the exact size and location of the areas of interest, the spleen, liver, and precordium, cannot be identified. Similarly, total organ information cannot be obtained using the currently used scintillation probe because of its limited crystal size. We have developed a simple, rapid, and accurate method which overcomes these obstacles by utilizing a second radiopharmaceutical, mTc sulfur colloid for organ/site localization and the use of a dedicated clinical camera/computer system for data collection and analysis from regions of interest.