Definition | Reasons for Test | Possible Complications | What to Expect | Call Your Doctor

Definition

A ProstaScint scan uses an injection of low-level radioactive material to test for the spread of prostate cancer.

Prostate Cancer

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Reasons for Test

This test is given to men who have prostate cancer to see if it has spread to the lymph nodes.

Possible Complications

Complications are rare. But, no procedure is free of risk. If you are planning to have a ProstaScint scan, your doctor will review a list of possible complications. These complications may include:

  • Changes in the levels of bilirubin (a waste product) in the blood
  • Changes in blood pressure
  • Allergic reaction

Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the test.

What to Expect

Your doctor may do a bone scan. This is a test that detects areas of increased or decreased bone turnover. It can reveal bone injury or disease.

Before your test:

  • You will come in 4-5 days before the scan for an injection of radioactive isotope into your vein.
  • Follow your doctor’s advice for cleaning out your bowel. You may need to take a laxative or enema the night before.
  • You may need to have your bladder emptied of urine by a urine catheter.

For the scan, you will be positioned next to a device that takes images.

The radioactive material that was injected into your vein is attracted to prostate cancer cells in the body. Whole body images will be taken to detect areas where the material collects. This is done to find out if the cancer has spread to lymph nodes or other organs away from your prostate.

You will be able to leave after the test is done. You can resume normal activities. You may need to return the next day for more images.

1-2 hours

No

Your doctor will review the images. The results will be ready in a few days.

Call Your Doctor

Call if you have any questions or concerns. In case of an emergency, call for medical help right away.