Identification of an infected left ventricular assist device after cardiac transplant by indium-111 WBC scintigraphy.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this case report is to demonstrate the utility of multimodality imaging in the diagnosis of infection within a retained prosthetic device in the posttransplant setting. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Autologous leukocytes were labeled in vitro with indium-111 oxine and were reinjected. Whole-body and SPECT images were acquired at 24 hours and correlated with contemporary CT images. RESULTS: Through the use of combined indium-labeled WBC scintigraphy and CT we were able to identify infection within retained left ventricular assist device tubing status postcardiac transplantation in a patient with a diagnosis of fever of unknown origin. CONCLUSION: Localization of possible infectious etiologies within the transplant population is of utmost concern. Multimodality imaging, often utilizing scintigraphic techniques, is recommended.