Lymphoscintigraphy
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
What do I need to know about lymphoscintigraphy?
Lymphoscintigraphy is a procedure to look at your lymphatic system. It identifies the first lymph node that receives drainage from your tumor site. This is called a sentinel node. The sentinel node tells healthcare providers if your cancer has spread. Lymphoscintigraphy can show if a blockage in your lymphatic system is causing lymphedema. It also helps your healthcare provider plan surgery or other treatments you may need. Lymphoscintigraphy may be done before surgery or during surgery.
Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions
Opdivo
Opdivo is used to treat many cancers, such as melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, malignant ...
Rituxan
Rituxan infusion is used to treat certain leukemias and lymphomas and some non-cancer conditions ...
Botox
Botox is used for cosmetic purposes and to treat overactive bladder symptoms, urinary incontinence ...
Calquence
Calquence (acalabrutinib) is used to treat chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and mantle cell ...
Dexamethasone
Dexamethasone is used to treat inflammatory conditions such as allergies, skin conditions ...
Tamoxifen
Tamoxifen blocks the actions of estrogen and is used to treat and prevent some types of breast ...
Acalabrutinib
Acalabrutinib (Calquence) is used to treat chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and mantle cell ...
Polivy
Polivy (polatuzumab vedotin-piiq) is a targeted treatment that may be used to treat diffuse large ...
Anastrozole
Anastrozole systemic is used for breast cancer, breast cancer, metastatic, endometrial cancer ...
How do I prepare for lymphoscintigraphy?
Do not enter the scintigraphy room with metal. Metal will interfere with the images. Tell your healthcare provider and technician if you think or know you are pregnant. Tell them if you are breastfeeding.
What will happen during lymphoscintigraphy?
A radioactive material (radiotracer) may be injected in multiple areas. It may be injected around your tumor, or between your fingers and toes. The location of the injection depends on the reason for the procedure. A gamma camera or PET scanner will be used to obtain pictures of the radiotracer. You will be asked to stay as still as possible while the pictures are being taken. The camera may circle around you, or you may be asked to change positions. The camera may need to be very close to your body to get clear pictures. Lymphoscintigraphy may take several hours.
Care Agreement
You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.© Copyright Merative 2025 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.