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Liver scan

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Liver scan
Liver scan

Alternative Names    Return to top

Technetium scan; Liver technetium sulfur colloid scan; Liver-spleen radionuclide scan; Nuclear scan - technetium; Nuclear scan - liver or spleen

Definition    Return to top

A liver scan uses a radioactive material to help determine how well the liver or spleen is working.

How the Test is Performed    Return to top

The health care provider will inject a radioactive material called a radioisotope into one of your veins. After the liver has soaked up the material, you will be asked to lie on a table under the scanner.

The scanner can tell where the radioactive material has gathered in the body. Images are displayed on a computer. You may be asked to remain still, hold your breath for short period of time, or to change positions during the scan.

How to Prepare for the Test    Return to top

You must sign a consent form. You will be asked to remove jewelry, dentures, and other metals because they can interfere with the scanner's functions.

You may need to wear a hospital gown.

How the Test Will Feel    Return to top

You will feel a sharp prick when the needle with the radioactive substance is inserted into your vein. You shouldn’t feel anything during the actual scan. If you have difficulty lying still or are very anxious, you may be given a mild sedative to help you relax.

Why the Test is Performed    Return to top

The test can provide information about liver and spleen function. It is also used to help confirm other test results.

Normal Results    Return to top

The liver and spleen should appear normal in size, shape, and location. The radioisotope is absorbed evenly.

What Abnormal Results Mean    Return to top

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

Risks    Return to top

There is some concern with radiation from any scan. However, the level of radiation in this procedure is less than that of most x-rays and is not considered significant enough to cause harm to the average person.

Pregnant or nursing women should consult their health care provider before any exposure to radiation, because fetuses and nursing babies are more sensitive to the effects of radiation.

Considerations    Return to top

Other tests may be needed to confirm the findings of this test. Additional tests may include an abdominal ultrasound, abdominal CT scan, liver biopsy, or liver flow study.

References    Return to top

Lidofsky S. Jaundice. In: Feldman M, Friedman L, Brandt L, eds. Sleisinger and Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2006:chap 14.

Update Date: 1/28/2009

Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and George F Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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