DMSA 0-2 years
Information for patients
Nuclear medicine is the use of small amounts of radioactive materials to gain images for diagnosis or treatment of various conditions or diseases. Images are created by administering a radioactive compound (“tracer”) which targets a particular region of interest. All tests are safe and non-invasive
Unlike other scanning methods such as: X-rays, nuclear medicine test provides information about physiology and function.
Your doctor has requested a DMSA for your child and in this leaflet we describe what is involved.
Please read through everything very carefully.
What is this study going to show?
The purpose of this study is to obtain pictures of your child’s kidneys. This will help your doctor diagnose your child’s condition and give you appropriate treatment.
Please allow approximately 3hours for the study.
Is the radioactivity harmful?
The test will involve the use of a small amount of ionising radiation (similar to a CT scan) and the risk associated with this is low. The main benefit of the test is making the correct diagnosis, so your child can get the treatment that is right for them. This benefit is far greater than the small risk of radiation.
Preparing for the study
No preparation is required; however we ask you keep your child well hydrated before the test.
What does the study involve?
Radioactive Tracer Injection
The study involved a tiny amount of radiation injected. To have the venous access you have been booked with the PACC team (Saturn Ward, first floor). Your child will have a cannula put in there and after that you will come to the nuclear medicine department for the injection.
The injection will take place in the injection room and takes about 10 minute. The cannula will be removed straight after the injection is done.
Waiting Period
After the application of the cream, you can leave the department for the interval instructed by the team. The scan can be between 3-4 hours after the injection. You will be informed of the time for return.
DMSA
Before the DMSA scan you will be required to remove any metal that may be on your child’s clothing over the abdominal area. You may also be instructed to ask your child, where possible, to empty their bladder before starting the scan.
Your child will be given the opportunity to pick a DVD to watch if they wish during the duration of the scan. You can stay with your child throughout the scan.
The scan can take up to 30-40minutes.
How long does the test take?
Your scan will be 3-4hours after the injection and the scan can take up to 40minutes.
Further information
Please do not hesitate to ask a member of staff in the department if you have any questions.
Alternatively, you can contact the booking office on 020 3315 8415
If your child is currently on any medication please continue having them. If possible please bring you list of medications with you.
Can I bring a friend with me?
Yes, although some parts of your test may require your friend to sit outside the examination room. Please do NOT bring children or pregnant women (unless the test is for the child).
What measures I have to take?
We advise patients to drink plenty of fluids to flush the remaining radioactivity out of the body. You may then resume a normal diet unless advised otherwise.
What happens to the study results?
A report will be sent to your consultant doctor within two weeks. Unfortunately you will not receive results on the day of your test.
What if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you believe that you may be pregnant or if you are breastfeeding it is important that you contact the department as soon as possible before your child’s test.
Contact information
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital
Nuclear Medicine Department
1st Floor, Lift Bank D (within main X-Ray department)
T: 020 3315 8415