Gallium-68 DOTATOC
A radiolabeled somatostatin analog used in positron emission tomography for imaging neuroendocrine tumors.
Full Definition
Gallium-68 DOTATOC is a radiopharmaceutical consisting of the positron-emitting isotope gallium-68 chelated to DOTATOC (DOTA-Tyr3-octreotide), a somatostatin receptor analog. This imaging agent is used in PET/CT scans to detect and stage neuroendocrine tumors that express somatostatin receptors. The technique offers superior sensitivity and specificity compared to conventional imaging for detecting both primary tumors and metastases. The short half-life of gallium-68 (68 minutes) allows for same-day imaging with relatively low radiation exposure.
Usage
Usage note: Can be written as 68Ga-DOTATOC or Gallium-68 DOTATOC; maintain consistency within documents.
In Context
- "Gallium-68 DOTATOC PET/CT demonstrated multiple hepatic metastases not visible on conventional CT imaging." — Nuclear medicine report
- "The patient underwent gallium-68 DOTATOC imaging for restaging of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor." — Imaging requisition