DMSA scan
Also written as: DMSA — dimercaptosuccinic acid
Nuclear medicine imaging using dimercaptosuccinic acid to assess kidney scarring and differential renal function.
Full Definition
DMSA (dimercaptosuccinic acid) scan is a nuclear medicine study that provides detailed information about renal cortical function and identifies areas of scarring or dysplasia. In pediatric nephrology, DMSA scanning is primarily used to detect renal scarring following urinary tract infections, assess differential kidney function before surgical interventions, and evaluate congenital anomalies. The test involves injection of technetium-99m labeled DMSA, which is taken up by functioning renal tubular cells. Images are obtained 2-3 hours post-injection to allow optimal cortical uptake and background clearance.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify timing relative to acute infection when reporting results.
In Context
- "The DMSA scan revealed cortical scarring in the upper pole of the left kidney." — radiology report
- "Follow-up DMSA scanning is recommended 6 months after acute pyelonephritis in children." — clinical guideline