Gallium scan preparation
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
A gallium scan is a type of nuclear medicine test that uses a small amount of radioactive material (gallium-67) to look for areas of infection, inflammation, or certain types of cancer inside your body. The scan is done over a few days, with images taken several hours or a day after the injection.
Key facts
- Gallium scans are often used when doctors need to find the source of a fever of unknown origin or see if an infection has spread to your bones.
- The scan involves having a tiny amount of radioactive substance injected into a vein, which then travels to areas of active cells, like infections or tumors.
- You usually don't need to change your diet or stop taking most medications, but you may need to empty your bowel with a mild laxative on the day before the scan to get clearer images.
Gallium scans are not routine – they are usually ordered when other tests haven't given clear answers. Your doctor will only suggest one if it's really needed.
Gallium scans can be used in people of any age, but the test is often done in adults who have a persistent fever or chronic infection. Children may have the scan if there is concern about bone infection or certain cancers, but the radiation dose is adjusted for their size.
Symptoms
- High fever (over 39°C) with chills and rapid breathing
- Sudden severe pain in a bone or joint that makes it impossible to move
- Signs of an allergic reaction to the injection (hives, trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat) – call emergency services right away
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing during or after the scan
- ⚠Fever that doesn't come down with simple measures (like paracetamol) and lasts more than 3 days
- ⚠Red streaks spreading from a wound or swollen joint
- ⚠Increasing pain or swelling that prevents normal activities
Common symptoms
- Persistent fever that hasn't been explained by other tests
- Unexplained pain or swelling in a bone or joint
- Signs of an infection that isn't getting better with treatment
Symptoms in children
- Refusal to use a limb (which could mean bone infection)
- Unexplained high fever lasting more than a few days
- Swollen, warm area on the skin or a limp
Symptoms in older adults
- Fever that comes and goes without a clear cause
- Pain in a specific bone or joint, especially after a fall or surgery
- Changes in mental state (confusion) along with signs of infection
Causes
Main causes
- The gallium scan itself is not a cause of an illness. It's a test used to look for causes of symptoms like fever or pain.
- Conditions that may lead to a gallium scan include bone infections (osteomyelitis), inflammation in organs (like sarcoidosis), or certain cancers (such as lymphoma).
Risk factors
- Having a weakened immune system (from chemotherapy, HIV, or long-term steroid use) increases the chance of needing a gallium scan to find hidden infections.
- Recent surgery or an implanted medical device (like a joint replacement) can raise the risk of infection that might need a gallium scan to detect.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you have a fever over 38.5°C that won't go away after a few days, see your doctor promptly.
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you have persistent pain, swelling, or a wound that isn't healing, make an appointment to discuss whether a gallium scan could help find the cause.
Diagnosis
A gallium scan is not a diagnosis itself – it's a test that helps your doctor make a diagnosis. The scan images show areas where gallium collects, which may point to infection, inflammation, or cancer.
Tests that may be done
- Gallium scan (nuclear medicine imaging)
- Blood tests (like full blood count, CRP, ESR) to look for signs of infection or inflammation
- Bone scan or MRI if a bone infection is suspected but gallium scan results are unclear
What to expect at your appointment
You'll have a small injection of radioactive gallium into a vein. Then you'll need to wait – often 24 hours – before the first images are taken. The scan itself is painless and you lie still on a table. Sometimes a second set of images is taken at 48 or 72 hours. You can eat and drink normally between scans.
Treatment
Treatment depends entirely on what the gallium scan finds – for example, an infection will need antibiotics, while inflammation might be treated with anti-inflammatory medicines. The scan just guides your doctor.
Self-care at home
- Follow your doctor's advice about any medication or rest you need while waiting for scan results.
- Stay well hydrated – drink plenty of water – to help your body process the radioactive tracer.
- Keep the injection site clean and dry for 24 hours.
Medical treatments
If the scan shows an infection, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics (usually taken by mouth or through a vein). For inflammatory conditions, anti-inflammatory medications may be used. For certain cancers, further imaging and a biopsy would be needed to plan treatment like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Always take medicines exactly as prescribed.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is rarely needed just because of a gallium scan. However, if an abscess (a pocket of pus) is found, it may need to be drained surgically. Bone infections sometimes require surgery to remove dead tissue.
Living with this condition
After the scan, you can go back to normal activities. The radioactive material leaves your body naturally over a few days. You don't need to isolate from others, but avoid close contact with pregnant women and babies for 48 hours as a precaution.
Lifestyle tips
- Drink extra fluids for a day or two after the scan to help flush the tracer out of your body.
- Continue any treatment your doctor has started for the underlying condition.
- Keep follow-up appointments so your doctor can discuss the scan results.
Diet and exercise
No special diet or exercise restrictions are needed after a gallium scan. Just eat and drink normally. If you had to take a laxative before the scan, pause any diet changes and let your body return to usual.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Waiting for scan results can be stressful. It's normal to feel anxious. Talk to your doctor or a counselor if you're struggling. Remember that the scan is a step to finding answers and getting the right treatment.
Prevention
A gallium scan is a diagnostic test, not something to prevent. The conditions it finds, such as infections, may sometimes be prevented with good hygiene, prompt wound care, and staying up-to-date on vaccinations.
Vaccines
Omit
Screening programmes
Omit
Complications
If left untreated
- If the underlying condition (like a hidden infection or cancer) is not addressed, it could worsen – for example, a bone infection could damage the bone permanently, or an untreated cancer could spread.
Long-term outlook
Most conditions found by a gallium scan can be treated effectively when caught early. The scan helps your doctor make a precise diagnosis so you can start the right treatment. With proper care, the outlook is often very good.
Find support
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
Guidance may differ by country or region. Confirm local recommendations with a qualified healthcare provider.