A salivary gland scan, also known as Parotid Scintigraphy, is a non-invasive nuclear medicine test that evaluates the function of the salivary glands. These glands include the parotid and submandibular glands, located on both sides of the neck just below the ears and under the jaw.
Salivary gland scans can help evaluate patients with persistent symptoms of a dry mouth or gland swelling due to either infection, inflammation, or obstruction.
The procedure is usually performed in a hospital nuclear medicine department or outpatient radiology facility. A low-level radioactive marker, technetium-99, is injected and images are taken as the tracer accumulates in the glands. About 45 minutes later, a sour substance such as a lemon drop is given to stimulate saliva flow, and additional images are taken for comparison. The test takes about 60 minutes.
Salivary gland scans are safe as the level of radioactivity used to obtain the images is low. However, women who are pregnant should not have this test unless absolutely necessary. If you are breastfeeding, the physician performing the test will advise you on the duration of time needed to elapse before you can resume nursing your child.
No special preparation is needed and fasting or medication restrictions are not usually required.
