Which organ does Tc99m pertechnetate localize in for detecting Meckel's diverticulum?

Prepare for the ARRT Nuclear Medicine Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions; each question comes with hints and explanations. Ensure you're ready to ace your exam!

Tc99m pertechnetate is a radiopharmaceutical that is known for its affinity for certain tissues in the body, particularly those that uptake pertechnetate similar to how they handle iodide. One of its significant applications is in the detection of Meckel's diverticulum, which is a congenital anomaly resulting from the incomplete closure of the omphalomesenteric duct.

When Tc99m pertechnetate is administered, it localizes primarily in areas that have gastric mucosa, including the stomach and any ectopic gastric tissue, which is often found in Meckel's diverticulum. This uptake is because gastric mucosa can concentrate pertechnetate. In the case of Meckel's diverticulum, if there is gastric mucosa present within the diverticulum, it will take up the radiotracer, allowing for visualization on imaging studies, typically during a nuclear medicine scan.

The other options do not relate directly to the localization of Tc99m pertechnetate in the context of Meckel's diverticulum. Salivary glands also uptake pertechnetate but are not the focus in detecting Meckel's. The choroid plexus and the thyroid gland use iodide but do not

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy