A rapid and stable ITLC procedure for the determination of the radiochemical purity of Tc-99(m)-tetrofosmin

Tc-99(m)-tetrofosmin (Myoview(TM), Amersham Healthcare) is widely used as a radiopharmaceutical for myocardial perfusion imaging. Control of its radio chemical purity after reconstitution is usually performed by means of ITLC- SG paper chromatography in a mobile phase of methylene chloride/acetone (65 /35), as recommended by the manufacturer. The present study describes the a pplication of tetrahydrofuran in phosphate buffer for the development of Tc -99(m)-tetrofosmin on ITLC-SG strips. The use of this mobile phase signific antly improves the separation between labelled tetrofosmin and unbound pert echnetate. The time for development is about 1 min and the solvent is stabl e for at least 1 year. In addition, the volume spotted on the strip does no t affect the migration of Tc-99(m)-tetrofosmin. The labelling efficiency of 99Tcm-tetrofosmin can successfully be monitored by means of this method as a daily routine procedure. ((C) 2001 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins).