Diagnostics·Diagnostics
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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 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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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 8, 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.