Notable Visualization of the Gallbladder on a 99mTc-MDP SPECT/CT Bone Scintigraphy in a Case of Brucellosis

Abstract

Abstract Comprehension of the typical distribution pattern of 99mTc-methylenediphosphonate (MDP) is crucial for precise interpretation of bone scintigraphy. The presence of nonskeletal activity is predominantly confined to the kidneys and bladder, attributed to the standard renal excretion of 99mTc-MDP. We discuss a 70-year-old woman with a known case of brucellosis using rifampin, doxycycline, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (co-trimoxazole), and ciprofloxacin for the past 8 months. Anterior and posterior aspects of the whole-body bone scan showed diffuse increased uptake in the bodies of L2 and L3 vertebrae and related intervertebral disks. However, unexpected uptake is noted in the right upper quadrant in the region of the gallbladder. Radiochemical impurities did not show during radiopharmaceutical (MDP) quality control, and the other patients showed normal distribution. This gallbladder uptake may be attributed to the altered distribution of the radiotracer and/or gallbladder injury caused by the administration of antibiotic therapy.