Quantitative salivary gland scintigraphy.

Background: Since its introduction in 1965 salivary gland scintigraphy has been an established method to simultaneously investigate excretion function in major salivary glands. In order to elucidate parenchymal function of salivary glands, several authors described various quantitative and semiquantitative methods. However, no standardized protocol for quantitative salivary gland scintigraphy has been established so far. Methods: Therefore, in this paper we report on a standardized and validated acquisition protocol for salivary gland scintigraphy using Tc-99m-pertechnetate. Results: A normal data base for both parenchymal and excretion function is given in detail. In addition, the diagnostic value of salivary gland scintigraphy is reviewed in various clinical settings, such as mild parenchymal damage in beginning Sjogren's syndrome, proof of functional obstruction in sialolithiasis with and without parenchymal damage, and parenchymal damage following radioiodine treatment. In a second part, applications of salivary gland scintigraphy in current clinical research are described, and radiation protection of salivary glands in rabbits and patients treated with high doses of I-131 are discussed. Conclusions: Salivary gland scintigraphy is a study that is easily performed and well tolerated by the patient. It yields quantitative parameters for parenchymal function and excretion fraction.