DMSA – renal scarring — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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ModerateNephrologyDMSA – renal scarringRACP Paediatrics

A 2-year-old girl has had 2 febrile UTIs. Renal ultrasound shows bilateral renal scarring. What is the most appropriate investigation to confirm and quantify renal scarring?

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Correct answer: C — DMSA scan

DMSA (dimercaptosuccinic acid) scan is the gold standard for detecting and quantifying renal cortical scarring. It shows areas of reduced tracer uptake corresponding to scarred parenchyma and provides differential renal function. It is more sensitive than ultrasound for detecting scars and guides long-term management (BP monitoring, proteinuria screening).

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2023 – UTI CPG; RACP Paediatric Curriculum – Nephrology