¹⁸F Bone Scanning: Review of Indications and Results of 1,500 Scans

Abstract

Indications for and results of 18F bone scanning are reviewed. Of 1,500 scans, 980 abnormal scans demonstrated 963 skeletal and 92 nonskeletal abnormalities. Forty-six per cent of 1,265 scans obtained for malignant disease were positive for metastasis, with a high incidence in primary lesions not considered bone-metastasizing. Incidence of unsuspected polyostotic disease in primary bone tumor is reported. Serial bone scanning is useful in evaluating response to therapy. In 50% of patients with isolated pain or elevated alkaline phosphatase levels the skeleton was the responsible agent. Because extremity involvement is common, scanning of the entire skeleton is stressed.