Fused SPECT/CT imaging of peri-iliopsoas infection using indium-111-labeled leukocytes

Nuclear imaging with In-111-labeled leukocytes has become an instrumental tool in localizing sites of infection and is superior to Ga-67 in localizing abdominal and pelvic abscesses resulting from absence of a normal bowel excretory pathway. Labeled white blood cells (WBCs) localize at sites of infection through diapedesis, chemotaxis, and enhanced vascular permeability and can thus be used to identify infection. The accuracy of this functional imaging modality can be enhanced by fusing SPECT images of labeled WBC with CT images that provide anatomic detail to facilitate reading as illustrated in the case described.