Did the doctor tell you to have a Gallium Scan? Let's find out more about it.

Your doctor may have prescribed you a 'Gallium Scan'. You may have been a little scared when you heard the name. It's normal to feel a little nervous when you hear the word 'scan' or even the word 'radioactive'. But it's really nothing to be afraid of. Today, we'll talk about this in a very simple way that you can understand.

Simply put, what is a Gallium Scan?

A gallium scan is a special test that belongs to nuclear medicine. Don't be scared by the word "nuclear." It uses a very small, safe amount of radioactive material to see what's going on inside our bodies.

This test mainly looks for hidden cancer cells, infections, and inflammation (inflammation) inside our bodies. Think of this substance called gallium as a little 'spy' that is sent to find problematic areas inside our bodies. A doctor injects a small amount of this radioactive substance called gallium into your arm. Then, a special camera takes pictures of where this 'spy' has gone in your body.

What kind of diseases is this scan used to detect?

Gallium scans are often used to detect hidden problems that are difficult to detect with other scans. Here are some of the main medical conditions that can be detected with this scan.

In addition, sometimes if a person has a persistent fever, but no cause can be found (fever of unknown cause) , this scan is also done to see if the cause is an underlying infection.

Is this really dangerous? Should we be afraid of radiation?

This is the biggest question that many people have. The answer is, no, it is not dangerous . This test uses a very, very small amount of radiation. Simply put, it emits the same amount of radiation as you would be exposed to when you have a few regular X-rays.

How should I prepare before the scan?

Most of the time, this doesn't require much special preparation, but there are a few things you should be aware of.

• If you are pregnant or expecting a baby: If you are pregnant, or have even the slightest suspicion that you may be pregnant, you should definitely tell your doctor and the relevant department at the hospital before the scan, as radiation is not good for the baby in the womb.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are a breastfeeding mother, you should also mention this. You may be advised to stop breastfeeding your baby for a few days after the scan and give him formula milk. This is because this radioactive material can pass into your breast milk.
• Colon cleansing: Sometimes, you will be asked to take a laxative about a day before the scan. This will help cleanse your colon. This will make the images much clearer. It's like wiping the lens of a camera before taking a photo.

If there is any other advice besides this, the hospital will inform you about it.

What happens on the day of the scan?

A gallium scan is usually a two- or three-day procedure, which means you have to go to the hospital two or three times.

Day One: Taking the medicine

All that happens on this day is a small amount of a radioactive substance called gallium is injected into a vein in your arm. It's like getting a regular injection of medicine, or saline. You can go home after that. The medicine travels throughout your body and takes a day or two to accumulate in the problem areas.

Day Two/Three: Taking Pictures (Scanning)

The actual scan will be done a day or two later. When you go to the hospital that day, here are some things that will happen:

• You will be given a special hospital gown to wear.
• You will be asked to remove all metal objects from your body, such as earrings, necklaces, rings, and watches. Metal objects can interfere with the scanner's operation.
• You will be made to lie down on a special bed.
• Then a large camera will slowly move around your body and take pictures.
• The most important thing to remember here: This camera doesn't emit any radiation into your body. It just 'detects' gamma rays from the gallium inside your body, much like a radio picks up a signal.
• You will be asked to hold various positions and remain still during the scan.

This entire process can usually take about an hour. Sometimes you may be asked to come back another day to take more pictures.

What should I do after the scan?

You can go home the same day as your scan. The radioactive material in your body will gradually pass out of your body through your urine and stool over a few days. However, during those few days, it is important to follow these steps to reduce the chance that you will pass even a small amount of the radioactive material to others.

• When using the toilet:
• If you spill urine or feces, clean it up thoroughly.
• Flush the toilet twice.
• Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap after using the toilet.
• Drink plenty of water: Your doctor will tell you to drink plenty of water and fluids for a few days. This will help the radioactive material leave your body more quickly.
• Air travel: If you are traveling abroad within 3 months of your scan, ask your doctor for a letter about it , as sensitive scanners at some airports can pick up small amounts of gallium left in your body.

Are there any side effects to this?

This is a very safe test. However, very rarely, some people may have an allergic reaction to the injection. This can include a skin rash or nausea. If this happens, don't panic and tell your doctor immediately.

When will I receive the report?

You will usually receive the report within two to three days. The radiologist will carefully review the scan images, prepare a report, and forward it to the doctor who referred you for the test. Your doctor will then explain the results to you based on that report.

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