Utility of combined 99mTc-phosphate and 67Ga imaging in diagnosis of septic arthritis.
A case of septic arthritis diagnosed by combined 99m Tc-phosphate and 67Ga imaging, which preceded positive cultures of the infecting organism, is presented. A previously healthy 10-year-old girl complained of pain in her left hip with persistent fever. Initial laboratory studies showed a normal white cell count and negative blood cultures. A septic process was not confirmed. Blood flow studies and bone images with 99mTc-phosphate showed markedly increased perfusion in the left hip joint without extension to bone. Subsequent 67Ga images revealed a marked increase in radioactivity in the same region, indicating the presence of a septic process. Serial blood cultures and arthrocentesis showed Staphylococcus aureus. The patient improved on antibiotics.
D001170:Arthritis, Infectious / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D005710:Gallium Radioisotopes; D006621:Hip Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006801:Humans; D010710:Phosphates; D011877:Radionuclide Imaging; D013203:Staphylococcal Infections; D013667:Technetium
D005710:Gallium Radioisotopes; D010710:Phosphates; D013667:Technetium