Indium Screening Information?

[savvyj]

I have Chronic ITP and am at the end of my rope. My hematologists has talked about spleenectomy and i am leaning towards this. I have heard of Indium Screening Test from the PDSA. I know its done in Europe. I'm just wondering if its done in the US (I've heard its done at John Hopkins but not sure) and just need more information

[kered]

Hi savvji,

Unfortunately the indium test is not done in N. America. As far as I know it is done in the UK, France and Spain. In the UK it is available in London, Manchester and I think in Plymouth.

It is a useful technique in altering the chances of a success in your favour but there is no certainty of a successful outcome. Derek

[sailor]

Hi Savvji, I would like to think the PDSA could tell you where it is done in the USA. If you have not tried them, give them a call. Personally, if you do not bleed spontaneously and you have a count that you can live with, why have a splenectomy. I have had a count of 10 for 10+ years, still have my spleen, take no medication, live a normal life with bruises on occassions. Only take medication when I am having surgery, otherwise annual check ups with the hospital. Can you have a second opinion in the US and if your present haematologist is not a specialist in ITP, take a second opinion with one that is. Again I am sure the PDSA can advise on this. Good luck

[NickyD]

Hi Savvji I had a splenectomy and did not find out about the indium test until after the surgery. I was not happy. The splenectomy did not work for me. Had I had the test I think I could have avoided the operation.

[andrea_41 in reply to NickyD]

i also had splenectomy and didnt know about the test till after op , op didnt woirk for me either and now worse now than i was before op x