The visualization of pulmonary tuberculosis with Tc-99m (V) DMSA and Tc-99m citrate in comparison to Ga-67 citrate.

Two patients with active tuberculosis confirmed by chest radiography and positive sputum smears were included in this study to determine whether a Tc-99m labeled agent, such as DMSA or citrate could localize such lesions in comparison to Ga-67 citrate. Both patients had Tc-99m (V) DMSA, Tc-99m citrate, and Ga-67 citrate scanning at 1-day to 5-day intervals. Both patients had positive scan findings with all three radiopharmaceuticals. However, the quality of Tc-99m (V) DMSA scans was superior to Tc-99m citrate, which showed faint uptake. Tc-99m (V) DMSA may be a better alternative to Ga-67 citrate in the assessment of the activity and extent of tuberculosis.