Lung gallium (Ga.) scan

Alternative names:

gallium 67 lung scan; gallium scan, lung; lung scan; scan - lung

What the risks are:

There is some risk to children or fetuses. A pregnant or nursing woman may pass on radiation, so special precautions will be made for patients in those conditions who need the scan.

For nonpregnant or nonnursing women, and for men, there is very little risk from the radiation in gallium, because the amount is very small. There are increased risks with numerous exposures to radiation (such as X-rays, and scans), which you should discuss with the health care provider who recommends the test.

Special considerations:

Usually a chest X-ray will indicate the need for this scan. Small defects may not be visible.