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What does a white blood cell scan detect?

What does a white blood cell scan detect?

What is a white blood cell scan? A white blood cell scan helps us to detect abscesses and infection in soft tissue or bone or to detect fever of unknown origin. You might have heard your doctor mention a WBC scan. This is just another name for a white blood cell scan.

How is a white blood cell scan done?

During the first part of the tagged WBC scan procedure, approximately 60 ml of blood is drawn and is sent to an radiopharmacy where the patient’s white blood cells separated and then tagged to a radioisotope. This is generally done in the morning, as it must be arranged with the pharmacy.

What is a nuclear test for infection?

A gallium scan is a type of nuclear scan that can find cancer, infection or inflammation in the body. A radiologist injects a small amount of a radioactive substance into the bloodstream. The gallium settles in areas of the body where there is inflammation or infection.

How much does an indium scan cost?

On MDsave, the cost of an Indium-111 WBC Scan ranges from $1,033.00 to $3,441. Those on high deductible health plans or without insurance can save when they buy their procedure upfront through MDsave.

How long does a white cell scan take?

This is a tomographic set of images combines with a nondiagnostic CT used for attenuation correction and takes about 25 minutes.

Why would a doctor order a full body scan?

Full body scans are medical imaging procedures that will tell you what is going on in your entire body, from the brain to the toes. It could help to catch dangerous diseases like cancer in the early stages when it is still curable.

How long does an indium scan take?

A small amount of blood will be drawn from a vein in your arm. The technologist will then work with your blood sample to make the blood sample radioactive with a material called Indium. This process takes approximately 2-3 hours at which time you may leave the area if you choose. You will be given a time to return.

What is an indium scan looking for?

To use the sharing features on this page, please enable JavaScript. A radioactive scan detects abscesses or infections in the body by using a radioactive material. An abscess occurs when pus collects due to an infection.

How much WBC count is normal?

The normal number of WBCs in the blood is 4,500 to 11,000 WBCs per microliter (4.5 to 11.0 × 109/L). Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different labs. Some labs use different measurements or may test different specimens. Talk to your provider about your test results.

Can I drive myself home after a nuclear stress test?

You will not be allowed to eat or drink until the medicine used to numb your throat wears off. This usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. You may not drive yourself home after your test. Before coming for your test, arrange for someone to take you home afterwards.

How long does a nuclear medicine scan take?

A nuclear scan usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, plus the waiting time after the radioactive material is given. For bone scans, the material takes 2 to 3 hours to be absorbed.

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