ABSTRACT
We investigated the role of gallium citrate Ga 67 scanning in diagnosing spondylodiscitis. Scans of 41 patients with suspected spondylodiscitis showed increased radionuclide uptake in 39 patients; these findings correlated with those of magnetic resonance imaging and were proved by biopsy. Two patients with negative findings on gallium scans had been strongly suspected of having spondylodiscitis; biopsy findings in these patients showed degenerative changes. Thirteen patients had negative cultures, while 22 had polygenic infections and 4 had granulomatous infections. Gallium scanning proved to be 100% sensitive, specific, and accurate. The interrater accuracy was excellent. Follow-up scans were used to track therapeutic progress. We recommend complementary bone and gallium scans in cases of suspected spinal infections. If the scan is positive, a biopsy should be done. If the scans are negative, no further investigation is needed.
