Renal scans: DTPA/EC scan Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Renal Scans: DTPA/EC Scan Overview A DTPA (Diethylene Triamine Pentaacetic Acid) or EC (ethylene dicysteine ) scan is a nuclear medicine test used to assess kidney function, blood flow, and possible obstructions in the urinary system.Your doctor may recommend a DTPA/EC renogram scan for several reasons, such as: Evaluating the function of your kidneysChecking for kidney obstructions or blockagesMonitoring kidney transplantsDiagnosing conditions affecting blood flow to the kidneys Preparing for Your DTPA Scan Fasting: not usually required.Hydration: Drink plenty of water before your test unless otherwise directed by your doctor. This will help your kidneys process the tracer more effectively.Please inform the department if you have been advised of fluid restriction by your doctor.Medications: Inform your doctor if you have undergone any recent barium or contrast-enhanced CT scan within 48 hours prior to the test. Also, inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as they may affect the results. During the scan A small dose of a diuretic (such as furosemide) may be administered as part of the protocol as required by your doctor. This is to assess the state of kidney obstruction.You will be asked to lie down, and a special camera (gamma camera) will capture images, tracking the tracer through your kidneys.The initial scan called the dynamic phase, usually takes 30 minutes. Thereafter multiple smaller duration scans (called static scans) are acquired at specific time intervals as per the doctor’s instructions.You will be asked to lie still during the imaging to get the clearest results. After the DTPA /EC Scan You can resume normal activities immediately after the test. There are no dietary constraints.Drink extra fluids to help flush out the tracer from your body faster.