A Gallium or infection scan is a nuclear medicine test of the whole body. It shows hidden infection or inflammation. Typical effective dose 5 to 15 mSv, similar to about 2 to 5 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.
Hidden infection or inflammation.
Fever of unknown origin.
A small radioactive tracer is injected or swallowed. Preparation depends on the test; tell staff if pregnant or breastfeeding, as feeding may need a pause.
Typical effective dose 5 to 15 mSv, similar to about 2 to 5 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.
over 1 to 3 days. 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 gallium scan show?
Hidden infection or inflammation.
Why is a gallium scan done?
Fever of unknown origin.
How do I prepare for a gallium scan?
A small radioactive tracer is injected or swallowed. Preparation depends on the test; tell staff if pregnant or breastfeeding, as feeding may need a pause.
Does a gallium scan use radiation?
Typical effective dose 5 to 15 mSv, similar to about 2 to 5 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 gallium scan take?
over 1 to 3 days
Why is Gallium or infection scan done?
Fever of unknown origin.
How do I prepare for Gallium or infection scan?
A small radioactive tracer is injected or swallowed. Preparation depends on the test; tell staff if pregnant or breastfeeding, as feeding may need a pause.
Is Gallium or infection scan safe in pregnancy?
Typical effective dose 5 to 15 mSv, similar to about 2 to 5 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.
SI text CC BY 4.0; RadiologyInfo.org (ACR/RSNA) and MedlinePlus linked as references only, no text copied.