Comparison of Radiolabel Stability of Alternative Test Meals Using Tc-99m-DTPA in Gastric Emptying Scintigraphy

摘要

Background: The use of radiolabeled test meals with scintigraphy is considered the gold standard for gastric emptying (GE) measurement. This study aimed to evaluate the stability and labeling efficiency of different test meals other than the standard low-fat, egg white sandwich using technetium-99m Tc-99m-DTPA. Methods: A 4.6 MBq dose of Tc-99m-DTPA was mixed with each alternative test meal, including scrambled eggs, cheese, oatmeal, or Ensure?. Each meal was then placed in a glass tube containing fresh human gastric juice. Samples of each meal were separated from the solid as well as from the liquid food; radioactivity before and after filtering was assayed in a dose calibrator. The percentage of initial radioactivity remaining with the mixed meal was then measured and compared.