EC Renal Scan (Ethylene Cysteine Renal Scan)

An EC Renal Scan (Ethylene Cysteine Renal Scan) is a nuclear medicine test used to evaluate kidney function, blood flow, and urine drainage. It is similar to a DTPA renal scan but provides better imaging of kidney function with lower radiation exposure.

Purpose

• Assesses kidney function and blood flow.
• Diagnoses renal artery stenosis (narrowing of kidney arteries).
• Evaluates kidney obstruction (e.g., due to kidney stones or tumors).
• Helps determine differential kidney function (how well each kidney is working).
• Monitors kidney transplants to check for rejection or complications.

Procedure

1. Radioactive Tracer Injection

   • A small amount of Technetium-99m Ethylene Cysteine (99mTc-EC) is injected into a vein.
   • The tracer is filtered by the kidneys and excreted in the urine, allowing visualization of kidney function.

2. Imaging Process

   • You will lie still under a gamma camera.
   • The camera captures images at regular intervals for 30–45 minutes.
   • In some cases, a diuretic (e.g., furosemide/Lasix) may be given to check for obstruction or urine flow issues.
   • If renal artery stenosis is suspected, an ACE inhibitor (e.g., captopril) may be administered to see its effect on kidney function.

3. Completion

   • The scan helps identify kidney function problems, blood flow issues, or blockages.

Before the Test

✅ Hydration:

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

✅ Fasting:

• Some centers may require 2–4 hours of fasting before the test.

✅ Medication Restrictions:

• Inform your doctor about medications for blood pressure, diuretics, or kidney disease.
• If testing for renal artery stenosis, you may need to stop ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril, lisinopril, captopril) before the scan.

✅ Recent Contrast Studies:

• If you recently 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

• Lie still to avoid blurry images.
• Inform the technician if you feel nausea, dizziness, or discomfort.
• If a diuretic is given, you may feel an urgent need to urinate.

After the Test

✅ Drink plenty of water to 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.