SeHCAT

SeHCAT (or Selenium-75-homocholic acid taurine) is a synthetic bile acid analogue radiolabelled with the gamma-emitting isotope selenium-75. It is used in a clinical test to diagnose bile acid malabsorption.

Overview

SeHCAT is a radiopharmaceutical used in the SeHCAT test for diagnosing bile acid malabsorption in conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Crohn's disease. The test involves two scans, one week apart, using a gamma camera. The percentage retention of SeHCAT after 7 days gives a measure of bile acid malabsorption, with less than 15% retention being indicative of bile acid malabsorption.

Mechanism of Action

SeHCAT is a synthetic bile acid analogue which is absorbed in the ileum and excreted in the bile. It is used to measure the rate of bile acid loss, which is increased in conditions such as Crohn's disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

Clinical Use

The SeHCAT test is used to diagnose bile acid malabsorption, which can cause symptoms such as chronic diarrhoea. The test can help to differentiate between bile acid malabsorption and other causes of chronic diarrhoea, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

Side Effects

As SeHCAT is a radiopharmaceutical, there is a small risk of radiation exposure. However, the amount of radiation used in the SeHCAT test is very small and the benefits of the test generally outweigh the risks.

See Also

• Bile acid
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Crohn's disease
• Radiopharmaceutical
• Gamma camera

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