Where do MAA particles ultimately end up in the body?

MAA particles, or macroaggregated albumin particles, are used in nuclear medicine, particularly in lung imaging and liver scans. When injected into the body, MAA particles are primarily designed to be trapped in the pulmonary capillaries; however, they can also be directed to the liver due to their size and surface characteristics.

The liver is the main organ where MAA particles ultimately get lodged after administration. Once injected into the bloodstream, the particles travel through the circulatory system and, due to their larger size (typically around 10-100 micrometers), they tend to get trapped in the small blood vessels of the liver, particularly in patients with certain clinical conditions that affect blood flow or vessel integrity.

Understanding this process is crucial, particularly in procedures such as liver scans or treatments involving particles meant for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. The liver's predominant role in filtering blood makes it a likely destination for MAA particles. Consequently, this knowledge is critical when interpreting imaging results or planning treatments in radiopharmacy.