Hepato-biliary scintigraphy and hepatography with Tc-99m diethyl-acetanilido-iminodiacetate in obstructive jaundice

Tc-99m diethyl-IDA was used for combined serial hepato-biliary scintigraphy and processing of hepatographic curves, using a scintillation camera and an image-processing system. Patients with obstruction of the common bile duct, proven by operation, were investigated. Hepatograms from an area of interest corresponding to the periphery of the right liver lobe varied predictably with changes in the serum levels of alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin. Both anatomical and functional information was obtained. The investigation could be carried out even under reduced liver function. Hepatic uptake of the agent was noted at serum alkaline phosphatase levels up to 1000 U/l and serum bilirubin levels up to 170 mumol/l.