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Introduction

A DMSA scan is used to check the kidneys, including:

• where they are sitting
• size
• shape
• how well they are working.

The DMSA scan uses:

• Dimercapto succinic acid  (DMSA) - an injection of radioactive fluid that moves through the body
• a gamma camera - a large camera that measures radiation.

The gamma camera shows the DMSA moving through the kidneys.

A DMSA scan is used to check kidney conditions like:

• scarring from infections
• urinary reflux â€� when urine flows from the bladder back into the kidneys
• pyelonephritis â€� bacterial infection
• ectopic renal tissue â€� when the kidneys are found in a different position to where they should be
• infarction â€� when blood supply is blocked
• horseshoe kidney â€� when the kidneys are fused together
• renal failure â€� when the kidneys no longer work properly
• multi-cystic dysplastic kidneys â€� where tiny sacs of fluid called cysts take over the kidneys
• renal trauma â€� damage to the kidneys from a hit or fall.

Your child can eat and drink normally before the scan. 

The risks of radiation and allergic reactions are very low. Let your child’s treatment team know if they have any allergies. 

Talk to your child's doctor or treatment team if you have any concerns or questions.

Your child will not feel anything during the scan, and the camera will not touch them.

The DMSA scan happens in two parts. You can stay with your child.

Part 1:

1. the DMSA medication is injected using a small needle
2. the medication will take around three hours to move through the kidneys
3. during this time, your child can eat, drink and play as normal
4. the nuclear medicine scientist will let you know when your child needs to return.

Part 2:

Your child will be asked to do a wee and empty their bladder. If your child wears a nappy, you will be asked to change them into a clean nappy before the scan starts. 

1. your child lies on the scanning bed
2. velcro straps may be used to gently help your child stay still
3. the camera will come close to your child’s body and take pictures from different angles
4. this will take between 30 minutes and one hour.

You can leave once the images have been taken. The results may take some time to come back, and your child's doctor will contact you when they are ready.