Evaluation of reflux oesophagitis with technetium-99m-labelled sucralfate
van Zyl, J.H.; Nel, M.G.; Otto, A.C.; Grundling, H.D.; Reinecke, E.; Botha, J.M.
South African Medical Journal 86(11): 1422-1424
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0256-9574 PMID: 8980564 Document Number: 461062
Sucralfate binds with denuded protein to form a stable complex to protect the damaged mucosa. By utilising this property, technetium-99m-labelled sucralfate can be used to demonstrate ulceration in the upper gastro-intestinal tract. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate 99mTc-labelled sucralfate in the diagnosis of grade II-III reflux oesophagitis. Methods: Ten patients with endoscopic proof of grade II-III reflux oesophagitis and 10 patients with normal findings on oesophagoscopy were evaluated after they had swallowed 5 ml 99mTc sucralfate. Radionuclide imaging was done until activity in the oesophagus had ceased. Results: Retention of activity from 10 minutes up to 1 1/2 hours could be demonstrated in 9 patients with endoscopically proven oesophagitis. In the control group complete clearance of activity was seen in 7 patients. Gastro-oesophageal reflux could be demonstrated in 4 patients. Conclusion: 99mTc sucralfate is a sensitive and specific method for the non-invasive diagnosis of oesophagitis compared with endoscopy.