Rhabdomyolysis following coronary angiography: an unexpected detection on 99mTc-methyl diphosphonate bone scintigraphy

Abstract

Background Bone scintigraphy is an appropriate tool in the management of cancers for the detection of bone metastasis. Technetium 99 m-methylene diphosphonate (99mTc-MDP) is commonly used as a bone-seeking agent. The bones take up 99mTc-MDP through a process called chemisorption, which is more evident in areas of increased osteoblastic activities. Nevertheless, extra-osseous 99mTc-MDP uptake is an infrequent occurrence, which warrants a thorough clinical assessment to evaluate such findings. An example of extraosseous uptake discovery is rhabdomyolysis, which requires prompt recognition and immediate management. Rhabdomyolysis secondary to an adverse reaction towards iodinated contrast material is a rare condition that warrants a high index of clinical suspicion. Case presentation We present a case of a 75-year-old gentleman with underlying benign prostatic hypertrophy, and chronic kidney disease who had undergone a coronary angiography examination and intervention for ischemic heart disease. Pre-scheduled bone scintigraphy with 99mTc-MDP for the work-up of raised serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was performed 2 weeks post coronary angiography examination. Whole-body bone scan with single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) images showed an unexpected finding of extensive extra-osseous uptake in the muscles and soft tissues. Additional investigations confirmed the diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis. Nevertheless, despite the prompt recognition, administration of treatment and supportive care, the patient succumbed to life-threatening complications. Conclusion This case highlights the importance of recognising and identifying the pattern of extra-osseous uptake on bone scintigraphy imaging to ensure early intervention of severe and life-threatening conditions such as rhabdomyolysis.