A comparison of the sensitivity and accuracy of the 99TCm-phosphate bone scan and skeletal radiograph in the diagnosis of bone metastases.

The accuracy and sensitivity of the 99Tcm-phosphate bone scan and conventional skeletal radiology have been compared in 372 patients with documented malignant disease and 75 control subjects. Results indicate that the bone scan is a more sensitive method for the detection of skeletal metastases. The incidence of false-positive results with the bone scan is acceptably low. A protocol for the investigation of patients with suspected malignant disease of bone is suggested.