Useful when cross-sectional imaging is negative and an ectopic pheochromocytoma is suspected.
What is an MIBG scan
- Uses a radiactive substance (tracer) and a scanner to find the presence of pheochromocytoma or neuroblastoma.
- MIBG is the radioisotope. metaiodobenzylguanidine
- Patients are sometimes given an iodine mixture to prevent the thyroid gland from absorbing too much of the radioisotope.
- 90% sensitive for detection of pheochromocytomas
- FDOPA (fluoro-Dopa) PET/CT scan is also available for the detection of pheochromocytomas