A bone scan is a nuclear medicine test that detects abnormal bone metabolism. After injection of a small radioactive tracer, areas of increased uptake (“hot spots”) or decreased uptake are imaged to identify fractures, infection, arthritis, bone tumours or cancer spread, and prosthesis problems. It helps locate unexplained bone pain and assess disease activity and response to treatment.

A bone scan is a nuclear medicine test, not an MRI or CT. It involves injecting a small amount of radioactive tracer (usually technetium-99m) that concentrates in bone, and a gamma camera images metabolic activity. It detects fractures, infection, and metastases. Sometimes it’s combined with SPECT or CT for improved anatomical detail, but the core test is scintigraphy.

Seven warning signs of bone cancer: persistent bone pain that doesn't improve with rest and is often worse at night; swelling or a palpable lump over a bone; unexplained fractures from minor injuries; reduced joint movement or a new limp; persistent localized tenderness or warmth; unexplained weight loss; and ongoing fatigue, fever, or general malaise.

Several scans evaluate bones: plain X‑rays for fractures and alignment; DEXA for bone density and osteoporosis; CT for complex fractures and detailed bony anatomy; MRI for bone marrow, soft‑tissue injury and occult fractures; radionuclide bone scans or PET for infection, inflammation and metastases. Ultrasound has limited use, mainly assessing adjacent soft tissues.

A bone scan is generally not painful. You’ll receive a small injection of a radioactive tracer that may sting briefly; the scan itself is painless, though lying still for 30 to 60 minutes can be uncomfortable. Existing bone pain may be felt during positioning. Serious reactions are rare. Aftercare is minimal—drink fluids to help clear the tracer and inform staff about allergies or pregnancy.

Cost of a bone scan varies by country and setting. In public systems (e.g., NHS) it’s usually free; privately in the UK it’s about £200–£600. In India typical private fees are roughly ₹2,000–₹8,000. In the US out‑of‑pocket or private charges commonly range from about $300 to $2,000 (often $300–$1,200 depending on facility, radiotracer and extra imaging).