QUANTITATIVE SALIVARY-GLAND SCINTIGRAPHY

Background: Since its introduction in 1965 salivary gland scintigraphy has been an established method to simultaneously investigate excretio n function in major salivary glands. In order to elucidate parenchymal function of salivary glands, several authors described various quanti tative and semiquantitative methods. However, no standardized protocol for quantitative salivary gland scintigraphy has been established so far. Methods: Therefore, in this paper we report on a standardized and validated acquisition protocol for salivary gland scintigraphy using Tc-99m-pertechnetate. Results: A normal data base for both parenchymal and excretion function is given in detail. In addition, the diagnosti c value of salivary gland scintigraphy is reviewed in various clinical settings, such as mild parenchymal damage in beginning Sjogren's synd rome, proof of functional obstruction in sialolithiasis with and witho ut parenchymal damage, and parenchymal damage following radioiodine tr eatment. In a second part, applications of salivary gland scintigraphy in current clinical research are described, and radiation protection of salivary glands in rabbits and patients treated with high doses of I-131 are discussed. Conclusions: Salivary gland scintigraphy is a stu dy that is easily performed and well tolerated by the patient. It yiel ds quantitative parameters for parenchymal function and excretion frac tion.