RadioHippuran is a medical term referring to a diagnostic radiopharmaceutical compound used in nuclear medicine for renal function studies. Specifically, it is a radioactive form of hippuric acid, which is a natural substance produced by the liver during the breakdown of certain compounds in the body.
In medical practice, RadioHippuran is administered intravenously to patients, and its uptake and clearance within the kidneys provide valuable information about the overall kidney function. Typically, a small amount of iodine-131 is attached to the hippuric acid molecule, making it capable of emitting gamma radiation. This radiation can be detected externally using imaging devices such as gamma cameras, enabling physicians to observe and evaluate the renal function.
During a RadioHippuran renal scan, the compound is injected into a patient's bloodstream, and images are taken at specific time intervals as it is excreted through the kidneys. The concentration and elimination of RadioHippuran from the renal system can help assess renal blood flow, glomerular filtration rate, tubular function, and potential renal abnormalities.
RadioHippuran scans are commonly performed as part of the diagnostic workup for various kidney disorders, such as renal artery stenosis, renal artery embolism, and renal transplant evaluation. This diagnostic technique aids in identifying and characterizing different renal conditions, guiding treatment decisions including the need for kidney functioning enhancement or potential therapeutic interventions.
