Nuclear medicine scans use small amounts of radioactive material to check body functions. They help diagnose diseases early. Here’s a table with estimated costs in Kenyan public and private hospitals (in KES, 2026 figures).
Note: Costs vary by hospital, NHIF/SHIF cover, and scan area. Public costs are lower due to subsidies. Private ones include advanced tech.
1. Thyroid Scan Purpose
A thyroid scan checks the thyroid gland in your neck. It finds lumps or swelling. Doctors use it to spot cancer or overactive thyroid.
The scan shows how the gland takes up radioactive iodine. Hot spots mean high activity. Cold spots may signal tumors. It helps plan treatment like surgery or drugs.
Prep takes 24 hours. No pain. Results come in days. It beats blood tests for images.
2. Bone Scan Purpose
Bone scans detect problems in bones. They find breaks, infections, or cancer spread. Doctors order them for back pain or fractures.
A dye with radiation goes into a vein. It sticks to active bone areas. The camera shows bright spots for issues. It covers the whole skeleton fast.
Scans last 3-4 hours. Drink water after. Safe for most. Helps track arthritis or Paget’s disease too.
3. PET Scan Purpose
PET scans measure body cell activity. They excel at finding cancer, heart issues, or brain disorders. Glucose with radiation highlights fast-growing cells.
Combined with CT, it shows exact spots. Used for staging cancer or checking chemo. Brain PET spots Alzheimer’s. Heart PET checks blood flow.
Full body takes 30-60 minutes. Fasting needed. Costs more but precise. Guides targeted therapy.
Why Choose Nuclear Scans?
These scans show function, not just structure like X-rays. Low radiation dose. Non-invasive. Early detection saves lives.
Public hospitals suit budgets. Private ones offer speed and comfort. NHIF covers part in Kenya. Always ask for quotes.
When Doctors Order Them
Thyroid for goiter or nodules. Bone after injury or metastasis fear. PET for oncology follow-up. Combine with ultrasound for best results.
Risks are rare. Allergic reactions under 1%. Pregnant women avoid them.
Cost Factors in Kenya
Public: Government funds keep prices low. Wait times longer. Private: Modern machines, quick slots. Add-ons like sedation raise bills.
SHIF helps now. Compare via hospital sites. Nairobi has most options.
