title: Improved sensitivity in bone scintigraphy using quantitative spinal profile analysis.
abstract: Full-length skeletal scintiscans were acquired onto a data processor in a series of 256 X 256 matrices. A series of interactive computer programs enables the operator to select profiles down the spine and to standardize them by interpolation to a standard length and by normalization to a given count level. The counts within any section of a profile can then be calculated and the profile examined for any significant deviation from a reference 'normal' curve. In a study of 68 patients, 66% of the spinal profiles were judged abnormal, compared with 26% of scans assessed by visual inspection alone. Of 14 patients with positive profiles and negative or equivocal visually assessed scans, 11 had developed metastases within 14 months of the scan. All five patients with positive profile and raised alkaline phosphatase have died of metastatic disease. The technique appears to increase the sensitivity of bone scintigraphy.
authors.affiliation: Department of Oncology, Bradford Royal Infirmary, West Yorkshire, UK.
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Parker
authors.forename: G C
authors.initials: GC
authors.lastname: Hart
mesh_terms: D001859:Bone Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000556:secondary*; D001842:Bone and Bones / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D011877:Radionuclide Imaging; D012016:Reference Values; D012984:Software; D013131:Spine / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D013669:Technetium Tc 99m Medronate
chemical_list: D013669:Technetium Tc 99m Medronate