Special safety considerations in preparation of technetium Tc-99m DTPA for cerebrospinal fluid–related imaging procedures

Abstract

ObjectiveTo review special safety considerations in the preparation of technetium 99m (Tc-99m) diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA; generic name, pentetate) for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)–related imaging procedures. Data sourcesReview of practices and results at one institution supplemented with findings and recommendations from the literature. Literature searches were conducted via Medline/PubMed using the following terms: Tc-99m DTPA/pentetate, CSF, cisternography, intrathecal, and adverse reactions. The author's own files were also searched for articles (e.g., in newsletters) not indexed by Medline/PubMed. Study selectionArticles considered appropriate for review included all human research studies, reviews, case reports, abstracts, and letters published in English on Tc-99m DTPA use in CSF-related imaging procedures, especially with regard to safety or adverse reactions. Data extractionAll information related to safety precautions and adverse reactions associated with Tc-99m DTPA injected intrathecally or otherwise used for CSF-related imaging procedures were considered. Data synthesis18 years’ experience in one institution was reviewed with the added perspective of literature findings and recommendations. ConclusionWith proper attention to safety considerations, Tc-99m DTPA can be safely used in CSF-related imaging procedures.