Which organ receives the highest dose during a scan with Tc mebrofenin?

• A. Kidneys
• B. Large intestines
• C. Bladder
• D. Liver

Answer: (B)

In a scan utilizing Tc mebrofenin, the organ that typically receives the highest radiation dose is indeed the liver. This is primarily due to the pharmacokinetics of Tc mebrofenin, which is a hepatobiliary agent specifically designed for imaging liver function and biliary excretion. The liver is highly vascularized and actively takes up the Tc mebrofenin, resulting in a significant concentration of the radiopharmaceutical within this organ during the imaging process.

The distribution mechanism is also important; after administration, Tc mebrofenin is subject to hepatic uptake and subsequent biliary secretion. Therefore, the liver not only receives the initial dose from the injected radiopharmaceutical but also plays a crucial role in the distribution of the radioactivity in the body.

While other organs such as the kidneys, bladder, and large intestines may receive some level of exposure during a scan, the liver is specifically targeted for imaging with this compound, leading to a greater dose compared to the other organs listed. Thus, understanding the intended use of Tc mebrofenin and its biodistribution patterns clarifies why the liver is the organ that receives the highest radiation dose in this context.