A Bone scan (bone scintigraphy) is a nuclear medicine test of the whole skeleton. It shows areas of increased bone activity: cancer spread, infection, stress fractures. Typical effective dose 3 to 6 mSv, similar to about 1 to 2 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year).
General health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 102. Always consult a qualified health professional.
Areas of increased bone activity: cancer spread, infection, stress fractures.
Cancer staging, unexplained bone pain.
Drink extra water after the injection; the scan is done 2 to 4 hours later.
Typical effective dose 3 to 6 mSv, similar to about 1 to 2 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.
about 3 to 4 hours in total. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.
Nuclear medicine
Consult a doctor to interpret results — a single test does not make a diagnosis.
Uses your location once to list the nearest facilities. Nothing is stored.
What does a bone scan show?
Areas of increased bone activity: cancer spread, infection, stress fractures.
Why is a bone scan done?
Cancer staging, unexplained bone pain.
How do I prepare for a bone scan?
Drink extra water after the injection; the scan is done 2 to 4 hours later.
Does a bone scan use radiation?
Typical effective dose 3 to 6 mSv, similar to about 1 to 2 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.
How long does a bone scan take?
about 3 to 4 hours in total
Why is Bone scan (bone scintigraphy) done?
Cancer staging, unexplained bone pain.
How do I prepare for Bone scan (bone scintigraphy)?
Drink extra water after the injection; the scan is done 2 to 4 hours later.
Is Bone scan (bone scintigraphy) safe in pregnancy?
Typical effective dose 3 to 6 mSv, similar to about 1 to 2 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.
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