technetium tc-99m apcitide

Technetium Tc 99m apcitide is a radiopharmaceutical containing a metastable nuclear isomer of technetium-99. Upon radioactive decay with a half-life of 6 hours gamma-rays which can be detected using conventional equipment for X-ray diagnostics. Tc 99m contains the small-molecule synthetic peptide apcitide which binds to the PIIb/IIIa receptors on the surface of activated platelets, which are a major component in active thrombus formation. The localization of radioactivity may be recorded by gamma-ray detection camera. Tc 99m apcitide is indicated for scintigraphic imaging of acute venous thrombosis in the lower extremities in patients with signs and symptoms of acute blood clots. It is marketed by Bayer under tradename AcuTect. — NCATS