SPECT/CT Anatomy: Variations and Artifacts

Abstract

Successful interpretation of scintigraphic images depends on, to a great extent, the ability of the individual to appreciate deviations from the norm. In some cases, alterations in the biodistribution of a radiopharmaceutical or a gamma camera or computer-associated artifact may simulate a disease process and create considerable confusion for the less-experienced physician interpreting the study. Problems caused by the frequently used radiopharmaceuticals are related to preparation of radiopharmaceutical, factors associated with the radionuclide such as carrier technetium-99, components such as stanerous ion and particle, preparation procedures, and miscellaneous factors such as aluminum and pH. Artifacts and pitfalls can be caused by improper radiopharmaceutical administration.¹ Most artifacts related to the integrity of the detector head, computer system, and hard copy device can be detected on the uniformity image, because the most sensitive indicator of gamma camera performance is uniformity.²