Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are a group of rare and heterogeneous neoplasms that originate from neuroendocrine cells. These tumors can occur in various organs of the body, such as the lungs, pancreas, gastrointestinal tract, and adrenal glands, and can be challenging to diagnose and treat. However, a promising tool for detecting and treating NETs is the MIBG (metaiodobenzylguanidine) scan, a nuclear medicine imaging technique that can visualize the presence and location of these tumors. Cleveland clinic states that MIBG scans are very safe.
Medical tourism companies like Medditour connect the patients seeking treatments for NETs with the international hospitals and facilitators to get their MIBG scan done along with the treatments at affordable prices with no delay in time.
In this article, we’ll explore about MIBG scan procedure, how is it used, and how medical tourism influences MIBG scan technique.
MIBG procedure
The MIBG scan involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material, typically iodine-123 or iodine-131 labeled MIBG, into the bloodstream. MIBG is taken up by neuroendocrine cells and binds to specific receptors on the tumor cells, allowing them to be visualized by a gamma camera. The gamma camera can detect the radiation emitted by the MIBG and create images of the tumor location and size.
The MIBG scan is a non-invasive and painless procedure that usually takes 1-2 hours to complete. Patients are typically asked to fast for a few hours before the scan and may be given medication to help reduce any side effects.
Inside Radiation states that apart from the possibility of an increase in blood pressure, which is a relatively rare side-effect, there are no significant risks.
Significance of MIBG scan
The MIBG scan is a valuable tool for diagnosing and staging neuroendocrine tumors, as it can detect even small or metastatic tumors that may not be visible on other imaging modalities such as CT or MRI. Additionally, the MIBG scan can help guide treatment decisions, as it can identify the specific location and extent of the tumor, allowing for targeted therapy.
One such therapy is MIBG therapy, which involves injecting a higher dose of radioactive MIBG to specifically target and kill the neuroendocrine tumor cells. This treatment has shown promising results in the treatment of neuroendocrine tumors, particularly those in the adrenal glands and pheochromocytomas.
Medical tourism and MIBG scan
India and Turkey are two popular medical tourism destinations for a range of medical procedures, including the MIBG scan.
In India, medical facilities offer state-of-the-art imaging equipment and skilled medical professionals who can perform the MIBG scan with precision and accuracy. Moreover, the cost of medical procedures in India is significantly lower than in other countries, making it an attractive option for patients seeking affordable treatment.
Turkey, on the other hand, is a popular destination for medical tourists seeking high-quality healthcare services, including nuclear medicine imaging techniques like the MIBG scan. Turkish medical facilities have invested in advanced imaging technology, and the country has a well-established healthcare system with trained medical professionals. Additionally, Turkey offers affordable medical procedures, making it an ideal option for those seeking cost-effective medical care.
Companies like Medditour also help the patients seeking MIBG scan to combine their treatments for NETs with vacation, so as to enable the stress relief.
In conclusion, the MIBG scan is a valuable tool for the detection and treatment of neuroendocrine tumors. It is a non-invasive and painless procedure that can detect even small or metastatic tumors, allowing for targeted therapy. Medical tourism in India and Turkey provides an affordable option for patients seeking the MIBG scan, along with other medical procedures, making it a popular destination for medical tourists worldwide.