Scintigraphy of the intraperitoneal cavity using technetium 99m as a diagnostic technique for diaphragmatic leaks in peritoneal dialysis: regarding two cases

Pleural effusion secondary to pleuroperitoneal communication is an unusual complication of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. Many modalities have been used to diagnosis pleuroperitoneal: pleural fluid analysis, chest X- ray, Tc-99m gammagraphy, computed tomography scan and magnetic resonance image. Some of these procedures are invasive or have a high risk of induced-contrast nephrotoxicity. We present two case reports of pleuroperitoneal leak in two patients on peritoneal dialysis diagnosed with Tc-99m gammagraphy. We conclude that Tc- 99m gammagraphy is a simple, safe, non invasive, low radiation exposure and cost effective method in the assessment and evaluation of complications related to peritoneal dialysis such as pleuroperitoneal leak.