What Is a DMSA Scan?

Whether you are suffering from kidney infections or kidney stones, a DMSA scan may be necessary to find and diagnose the specific problem. All that is necessary is consultation with a radiologist, and about an hour of your time.

Test Administration

• According to the Children's Memorial Hospital, in order to administer the test, the technician will inject a small amount of radiopharmaceutical into your blood. After the drug is administered, a two-hour waiting period is required, after which you will lie on a table while a camera takes pictures of your internal composition.

During the Test

• The test will generally take around 10 minutes to complete, but it is important that you stay as still as possible while the pictures are being taken. After the pictures are complete, the drug that was injected into your bloodstream will be passed by means of urination.

Interpreting the Results

• Generally, the picture and test results will be developed and interpreted on the same day as the scan is completed. From there the results will be submitted to your physician where an adequate diagnosis of a renal condition may be rendered.