What is a DMSA scan?

A DMSA scan is an imaging test that looks at how well each kidney is working and checks for any scarred areas.

DMSA is short for dimercaptosuccinic acid, the chemical used in the scan.

What does a DMSA scan involve? 

Before the scan, you’ll be injected with DMSA, a fluid sometimes called a tracer, which contains a small amount of radioactive material. In your body, it gives out a type of radiation called gamma rays, which can be picked up by the special camera used in the scan so that the images it takes show your kidneys in detail.

Who is it for?

Your kidney doctor may recommend a DMSA scan to get more information about your condition.

Unlike other types of scans you may have had, such as ultrasound or CT scan, a DMSA scan can show how your kidneys are functioning. The information will be used to plan your treatment.

Is a DMSA scan safe? Are there any alternatives?

This type of scan contains some radioactive material, which may slightly raise your risk of cancer many years in the future. We are all exposed to background radiation in our daily lives. The amount of radiation from a DMSA scan is very small and roughly what you'd receive naturally in about two years. Your doctor has recommended a DMSA scan because the very small risks are outweighed by the benefits of having an accurate diagnosis.

You’ll have some radioactivity left in your body for a short time after the scan, but the tracer becomes inactive within a few hours and is passed out of your body in your urine. There are no side effects from the scan itself.

Where will the DMSA scan take place? 

A DMSA scan may take place in the nuclear medicine department or in the X-ray/radiology department.

Who will perform the scan? 

It will be carried out by a radiographer, a specialist in imaging tests, or by a technician.

What happens before a DMSA scan? 

Special preparation isn’t usually needed for a DMSA scan but follow any directions you’re given.

On the day, you’ll be at the hospital for up to 4 hours, so it may be worth taking something to occupy you.

What happens during the scan? 

• When you arrive at the hospital, the staff will explain the procedure and you’ll have the chance to ask questions.
• The tracer will be injected through a catheter into a vein in your arm or hand around 3 hours before the scan. That’s how long it takes for the fluid to reach your kidneys. You can eat normally while you wait for the scan but you’ll be asked to drink slightly more than usual.
• When you return for the scan, you’ll be asked to empty your bladder, and you’ll need to remove any metal items such as belts and jewellery.
• Staff will take you into the camera room, where you’ll lie on a bed with your arms by your side or over your head.
• You can breathe normally throughout but you’ll need to keep as still as possible while a large camera above the bed takes up to four sets of pictures, with each set taking about 10 minutes.
• The entire scan will last 30-45 minutes.

What happens immediately after the DMSA scan?

You should be able to home straight after the scan.

The hospital team may advise you to drink more fluids than usual to help flush the radioactive DMSA out of your body.

What should I expect when I get home? 

You won’t have side effects and will be able to get on with your usual activities.

For the rest of the day, you should avoid extended close contact with children and anyone who may be pregnant, to reduce the risk of unnecessary radiation to babies and children.

How will I get the results? 

The images will be reviewed and a report will be sent to your kidney doctor, who will discuss results and next steps with you.

Is there anything else I need to know? 

A small amount of radioactivity may be present in your urine for up to 24 hours after the scan, so make sure you wash your hands with soap and water after using the toilet.

If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are breastfeeding, please tell the radiographer before your appointment date, as they might need to postpone the scan or give you special instructions about breastfeeding.

Publication date: 01/2026

Review date: 01/2029