Identification

A bone scan can detect fractures, arthritis, Paget's disease of the bone (which affects the breakdown and re-formation of bone tissue), bone cancer, infection, fibrous dysplasia (in which bones are replaced with fibrous tissue), and diseases that affect bones' blood supply and cause bone pain, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Procedure

In a bone scan, an intravenous dye called a radiotracer is administered intravenously and detected by a camera, according to MedlinePlus.

Time Frame

The time it takes to perform a bone scan depends on why the test is being performed. Images may be captured soon after the radiotracer is given and then again after a few hours, or they may be taken only after time has gone by, MedlinePlus says.

Results

An abnormal bone scan might detect "hot spots," where a large amount of the radiotracer is accumulated, or "cold spots," where there is little of the dye, according to MedlinePlus.

Risks

There may be discomfort where the radiotracer is injected or as a result of having to remain still. The Mayo Clinic also reports that there is a very small risk of allergic reaction to the radiotracer.

Source:

Mayoclinic.com: Bone Scan Definition

Mayoclinic.com: Bone Scan---Why It's Done

MedlinePlus: Bone Scan

More Information:

Mayoclinic.com: Bone Scan Risks