Roger C. Han MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Nayer Nikpoor MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

A superscan is defined as markedly increased technetium-99m HDP or MDP uptake in the skeleton with significantly diminished soft tissue and renal activity. Different diseases result in superscan through different etiologies. A series of bone scans was reviewed to determine the different imaging patterns of superscan and to correlate the imaging pattern to the patient's underlying disease.

110 bone scans using Tc-99m MDP were reviewed retrospectively. Correlation with imaging patterns was made with clinical indication and underlying disease of each patient. Three distinct patterns of superscan were recognized, which were classified as type 1, type 2, and type 3.

Superscans of type one were characterized by multifocal skeletal areas of increased uptake. 78 patients (70.9%) had this pattern which mainly was seen with prostate, breast, lung, and renal metastasis. Type two superscan was characterized by homogeneous uniform bone marrow involvement. 20 patients (18.2%) were in this group and were seen in patients with lymphoma, leukemia, and mast cell tumor. Type three superscan was seen in 12 patients (10.9%) with diffuse homogeneous skull and axial skeleton uptake. This pattern was seen in patients with metabolic disorders such as hyperparathyroidism, Paget's disease and renal osteodystrophy.

Three distinct patterns of superscan were identified. The patterns are closely correlated with the underlying etiology.

Recognition of the superscan pattern may be userful to determine the underlying disease process.

Han, R, Nikpoor, N, Correlation between Different Types of Superscan on Tc-99 MDP Bone Scan and Underlying Disease.  Radiological Society of North America 2006 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 26 - December 1, 2006 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2006/4433135.html