Gallium Scan
Gallium Scan for Infection Detection
A gallium scan is a nuclear imaging test that uses a radioactive form of gallium that is attached to an agent that accumulates in sites of chronic infections.
A scan will show these problem areas as bright spots on an image, providing detailed information that may help your physician detect, diagnose and treat cancer, infection or inflammation inside the body. Gallium scans are particularly useful for evaluating chronic infections and fever of unknown origin.
Patient Testimonials
Shawn, Macy
“Today’s providers Shawna and Macy were very kind and caring. Exceptional service. Thank you!”
Anna
“I recently needed urgent imaging… I connected with Anna, and she changed everything. She understood the urgency… She was kind, efficient, and willing to think outside the box.”
Makayla P., Brooke H., Riley H.
“The receptionist was friendly and extremely helpful, and the clinicians were kind and sensitive.”
Kristin
“Superior technician. Kristin was very nice, knowledgeable, and explained everything thoroughly.”
Amy
“She even provided me with deodorant wipes when I forget to bring deodorant with me to apply after the exam.”
Emma
“Please pass on to all that my technician Emma was wonderful. She explained everything step by step. She was gentle and very thorough. Excellent patient care.”
Frequently Asked Questions
A gallium scan often requires multiple visits to our facility for imaging. During your first visit, your technologist will inject a small amount of gallium into your vein. After your injection, you will be asked to return one, two or three days later for your imaging scan. You will be asked to return for imaging at 24 and 48 hours after the injection and rarely you may be asked to return for a 72 hour scan.
A gallium scan is a multi-day procedure. During your first visit, you’ll receive the gallium injection, which takes just a few minutes. You’ll then return for imaging sessions at 24 and 48 hours after the injection, and occasionally at 72 hours. Each imaging session typically takes 30-60 minutes.
The gallium needs time to travel through your bloodstream and concentrate in areas of infection, inflammation, or tumors. Imaging at different intervals allows us to see how the gallium distributes in your body and provides the most accurate diagnostic information.
Yes. Gallium scanning uses only a small amount of radioactive material that is considered safe for diagnostic imaging. The gallium is injected into a vein and will naturally leave your body over time.