DMSA Scan (Dimercaptosuccinic Acid Renal Scan)

A DMSA renal scan is a nuclear medicine test used to evaluate kidney structure, function, and scarring. It provides detailed images of kidney tissue, making it useful for detecting kidney infections (pyelonephritis), scarring, and congenital abnormalities.

Purpose

• Assesses kidney structure and function.
• Detects kidney scarring (common after repeated urinary tract infections).
• Diagnoses acute pyelonephritis (kidney infections).
• Evaluates congenital kidney abnormalities in children.
• Assesses kidney damage from reflux nephropathy (urine backflow).
• Monitors kidney health in transplant patients.

Procedure

1. Radioactive Tracer Injection

   • A small amount of Technetium-99m DMSA is injected into a vein.
   • The tracer binds to healthy kidney tissue, allowing clear imaging of kidney structure.

2. Waiting Period

   • You will wait 2–4 hours to allow the tracer to be absorbed by the kidneys.

3. Imaging Process

   • You will lie still under a gamma camera.
   • The camera captures high-resolution images of both kidneys over 30–40 minutes.

4. Completion

   • The scan shows kidney size, shape, function, and areas of scarring or infection.

Before the Test

✅ Hydration:

• Drink plenty of water before the scan (unless instructed otherwise).

✅ Fasting:

• No fasting is usually required.

✅ Medication Restrictions:

• Inform your doctor about any medications you take.
• No specific medication restrictions, but mention if you take antibiotics or diuretics.

✅ Recent Contrast Studies:

• If you had a CT scan with contrast, inform your doctor, as it may interfere with results.

✅ Pregnancy/Breastfeeding:

• Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the radioactive tracer may affect the baby.

During the Test

• Stay still during imaging to avoid blurry results.
• The test is painless, but young children may need sedation if they have trouble staying still.

After the Test

✅ Drink plenty of water to help flush out the radioactive tracer.
✅ Resume normal activities and diet unless otherwise instructed.
✅ Avoid close contact with infants or pregnant women for a few hours if advised.