Technetium (99mTc) pentetic acid

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Technetium (99mTc) pentetic acid


Technetium (99mTc) pentetic acid is a radiopharmaceutical agent used in nuclear medicine for diagnostic imaging. It is a complex of technetium-99m, a metastable nuclear isomer, and pentetic acid, also known as diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA).

Chemistry[edit | edit source]

Technetium (99mTc) pentetic acid is formed by the reaction of technetium-99m with pentetic acid. Technetium-99m is a metastable nuclear isomer of technetium-99, and it is this isomer that is used for its radioactive properties. Pentetic acid is a polyamino carboxylic acid that is capable of forming stable complexes with metal ions, including technetium.

Medical Use[edit | edit source]

In nuclear medicine, Technetium (99mTc) pentetic acid is used as a diagnostic imaging agent. It is used in renal scintigraphy, a medical imaging technique used to assess the function and structure of the kidneys. The compound is injected into the patient's bloodstream and is filtered out by the kidneys, allowing for imaging of the renal system.

Safety and Side Effects[edit | edit source]

As with all radiopharmaceuticals, there is a risk of radiation exposure with the use of Technetium (99mTc) pentetic acid. However, the benefits of accurate diagnostic imaging generally outweigh these risks. Side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions and changes in blood pressure.

See Also[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD