The Hida test is an imaging test used to diagnose biliary obstruction, for example caused by gallstones or cancer, as well as gallbladder disease and bile leakage. Although radioactive substances are used as a contrast, the test is completely safe.

The Hida test(also known as a Hida scan or gallbladder scan) is an imaging test performed by nuclear medicine doctors. The test begins with an injection of contrast agent (a radioactive substance called iminodiacetic acid hydroxy acid, Hida for short). Contrast is taken up from the blood by the liver and excreted into the bile ducts. The contrast then dissipates wherever bile is secreted. Later, with the help of a special device called a nuclear scanner, it takes pictures of the gallbladder and bile ducts, which, after contrast injection, are more visible and easy to detect their obstruction. The images are then analyzed by a radiologist who interprets the results. The test is generally very safe and well tolerated by most patients. The entire test takes up to two hours.

Hida test in a he althy person

In a he althy person, the contrast will travel through the bile ducts and through the cystic duct to enter the gallbladder, then into the common bile duct and out into the small intestine, from which it will eventually be excreted from the body in the stool.

Important

The Hida test is a completely safe test. The radioactive contrast used in the test remains in the body temporarily until it is naturally removed in the urine or stools.

Hida test in a sick person

If the contrast is not detected in the liver - it can be presumed that the liver is sick. If the contrast is absorbed in the liver but has not been excreted into the bile ducts - there is a high probability of complete obstruction of the bile ducts after it has come out of the liver. leading "to" and "from" the gallbladder (the obstacle are most often stones, less frequently tumors, rarely the obstacle are parasites and blood clots). If the contrast is visible outside the liver, through the roadsand gallbladder leakage from the bile ducts or the gallbladder is very likely.

When is the Hida test performed?

  • to detect infection or other abnormalities of the gallbladder or bile ducts
  • to evaluate unexplained abdominal pain.
Important

The Hida test is not performed on people with serum bilirubin levels greater than 15-20 mg%.

How to prepare for the Hida test?

  • Preparation for the test should start the night before and do not eat or drink anything after midnight.
  • Before the test, each time the doctor is obliged to inform the examined person which drugs should be stopped immediately before the test.
  • People with diabetes should consult their doctor about taking insulin or other medications necessary to control blood sugar.
You must do it

Be sure to inform your doctor before the Hida test that:

  • you are pregnant
  • you are breastfeeding
  • you had an x-ray in the last 4 days.

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