A gallium scan detects areas of inflammation, infection, and certain tumors by showing where injected gallium-67 accumulates. It is used to localize abscesses, osteomyelitis, sarcoidosis, lymphoma and other inflammatory or neoplastic processes, and to investigate fever of unknown origin. It can help identify infected or inflamed tissues in lungs, bones and lymph nodes when other imaging is inconclusive.

A gallium scan typically costs roughly $500–$3,000 (US), £200–£800 privately (UK), or ₹4,000–₹15,000 (India). Public health systems often cover it when clinically indicated; out-of-pocket prices vary with facility, region, and insurance. Additional fees for radiologist interpretation, injection, and facility use may apply—always check the specific center and your insurer for exact pricing.

A Gallium-67 scan in India typically costs between ₹4,000 and ₹20,000, depending on city, hospital (private vs public), imaging modality (planar, SPECT or SPECT/CT), radiotracer availability and reporting fees. Higher-end tertiary centres or added consultant interpretation and extra imaging can raise costs. Confirm exact pricing and insurance/cashless options with the diagnostic centre before booking.

Gallium is not an essential element but can affect human physiology. It mimics iron, binds transferrin and is taken up by cells, disrupting iron-dependent processes—this gives antibacterial and antitumor activity and reduces bone resorption (used to treat hypercalcemia). Toxicity at high or chronic exposure can cause gastrointestinal upset, liver and kidney injury, bone accumulation and neurological symptoms; therapeutic use may cause renal toxicity and hypocalcemia.

A gallium scan carries low but real radiation exposure, so it’s usually avoided in pregnancy and used cautiously in breastfeeding. Other risks include allergic reaction or pain at the injection site, and rare infection. The test can produce false positives or negatives, leading to missed or unnecessary follow-up. Overall complications are uncommon, but discuss pregnancy, breastfeeding and prior allergic reactions with your clinician.

Gallium compounds (especially gallium nitrate) are used to treat hypercalcemia of malignancy. They have antitumor activity and have been studied for certain cancers such as non‑Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and bladder cancer. Investigational gallium formulations are also being explored for difficult-to-treat bacterial infections (e.g., Pseudomonas) and chronic wound or pulmonary infections.