Tc-99m-bicisate and Tc-99m-HMPAO SPECT imaging in early spontaneous reperfusion of cerebral embolism

Two patients with a cerebral embolism were evaluated by using both Tc-99m-e thyl cysteinate dimer (ECD, or Bicisate) and Tc-99m-hexamethylpropyleneamin e oxime (HMPAO) single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), In one patient, Tc-99m-ECD SPECT images revealed hypoactivity in a reflow hyperemi c area where an infarct was seen later on CT scans, In another patient, a r eperfused area showed hyperactivity on Tc-99m-ECD SPECT without any abnorma lity on follow-up CT. Tc-99m-ECD represents a potential agent with which to evaluate cerebral tissue viability in early reperfusion after ischemia.