TECHNETIUM-99m MINICOLLOID FOR RADIONUCLIDE LYMPHOGRAPHY

The technique for lymphatic system evaluation by imaging with technetium-99m "minicolloid" is presented. Results from studies which compared the smaller particle radiocolloid with the commercially available radiopharmaceutical of the larger colloid particle size demonstrated the former to be a far superior agent for imaging the lymphatic system. This appears to be due to its more favorable migration through successive nodal groups. Other proven advantages of the minicolloid material were same-day imaging, lower absorbed dose, and better resolution. Radionuclide lymphography is expected to play an increasing role, in conjunction with radiographic lymphography, as larger numbers of patients suspected of lymphatic system disease are evaluated using the nuclear medicine techniques and approaches described.