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Hello, I’m Dr. Cynthia Rigsby, a pediatric radiologist at Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago, Illinois. I’d like to talk with you about pediatric nuclear medicine imaging, which is typically used to help diagnose childhood disorders that are present at birth or that develop during childhood.

Nuclear medicine imaging uses small amounts of radioactive materials – called radiotracers – that are inhaled, swallowed or injected into the bloodstream. The radiotracer travels to the area being examined and gives off energy in the form of gamma rays which are detected by a special camera and computer to create images of the inside of the body. Because nuclear medicine imaging can pinpoint molecular activity in the body, it can often identify disease before symptoms occur and determine whether a patient is responding to treatment.

If your child is scheduled for a nuclear medicine exam, there are several things you can do to prepare.

First, tell the pediatrician about your child’s recent illnesses, medications and allergies, especially to contrast materials. Most nuclear medicine exams will involve an injection in a vein in your child’s arm or hand. Your child should wear loose, comfortable clothing and may be asked to wear a gown.

Ask the doctor if sedation will be needed to help your child remain still during the exam, and discuss whether your child should not eat, drink liquids or take medication beforehand. Children who have recently been ill will usually not be sedated. If your child has been or is becoming ill and sedation is planned, talk to your doctor about rescheduling the exam.

You may have some concerns about pediatric nuclear medicine. However, the level of radiation exposure is relatively low and the benefit of an accurate diagnosis far outweighs any risk.

To learn more about pediatric nuclear medicine, visit Radiology Info dot org.

Thank you for your time!