The Diagnosis of True and False Aneurysms With 111-Indium Labelled Platelets

Thrombus formation within arterial aneurysms may lead to embolisation and distal ischaemia. We have investigated the use of 111-indium labelled plate lets in the diagnosis of atherosclerotic and false aneurysms. Autologous platelets labelled with 111-indium oxine were injected into patients with eleven proven aneurysms (8 atherosclerotic, 3 false) . Gamma camera imaging performed be tween 24 and 72 hours later was positive for 10 of the aneurysms. In every case there was increased uptake of label over the aneurysm when compared to undis eased blood vessels (p < 0.05). Most aneurysms could be demonstrated within 24 hours of labelling platelets. 111-indium labelled platelets may prove useful in identifying the source of peripheral arterial emboli.