Lung Scan

Nuclear Scan, Lung, Ventilation and Perfusion Scan

What Affects the Test

Factors that can interfere with your test and the accuracy of the results include:

• Pregnancy. A lung scan is not usually done during pregnancy because the radiation could damage the developing baby (fetus).
• Barium and bismuth. If a lung scan is needed, it should be done before any tests that use barium (such as a barium enema).
• The inability to remain still during the test.
• The inability to breathe through the mask or tube.
• Medical conditions, such as pulmonary edema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), that involve the lungs or heart.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: October 24, 2008
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Myo Min Han, MD - Nuclear Medicine
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