Comparison of delayed imaging with Tc-99m PMT and Tc-99m DEIDA for visualization of hepatoma.

Delayed imaging was performed after the intravenous administration of Tc-99m DEIDA and Tc-99m PMT in 18 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Using Tc-99m DEIDA imaging, sharp uptake by liver tumors was observed in four patients (22%), but the uptake was similar to that of the surrounding normal liver in eight patients (44%). Using Tc-99m PMT imaging, the uptake by the tumor was notable in ten patients (56%) and normal in two (11%). Tc-99m PMT and Tc-99m DEIDA were both concentrated in hepatocellular carcinomas, but the former showed intense uptakes more frequently, and thus is suggested to be useful in the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma.