Tumor visualization using 67Gallium scintigraphy in children.

One hundred and twenty-two children suspected of having malignant disease were examined by 67Gallium scintigraphy. True-positive detection was obtained in 22 patients before treatment and true-negative in 22. False-negative scans were obtained in 5 children with primary adrenal neuroblastoma. Local recurence and/or metastases were detected in 29 of 58 children previously treated for malignant disease. For malignant disease, diagnostic sensitivity was 78% and diagnostic specificity 79%. It is concluded that 67Ga scintigraphy should be used for primary visualization and control of malignant tumors in children.