Nuclear Medicine Radioisotopes: Enabling Precision Imaging and Targeted Therapeutic Applications
Radioisotopes play a central role in nuclear medicine, supporting both diagnostic and therapeutic applications. They emit gamma rays, positrons, or particle radiation that can be detected or used to destroy targeted cells.
Diagnostic applications include imaging organs, blood flow, metabolic function, and detecting abnormalities. Common isotopes include technetium-99m, iodine-123, fluorine-18, and gallium-68. These isotopes bind to specific tissues, allowing PET and SPECT imaging to visualize internal processes.
Therapeutic radioisotopes deliver targeted radiation to tumors or diseased tissues. Iodine-131 treats thyroid disorders, while lutetium-177 and radium-223 target cancers. Advances in theranostics—combining therapy and diagnostics—enhance treatment accuracy and personalization.
Radioisotope development continues to expand through improvements in cyclotron production, generator systems, and radiopharmaceutical formulation. Safety practices, including shielding, handling protocols, and dose monitoring, remain essential for medical professionals.
FAQ
Q1: What are radioisotopes used for?A1: Imaging, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases.
Q2: What imaging techniques rely on them?A2: PET scans and SPECT scans.
Q3: What is theranostics?A3: A combined approach using isotopes for both diagnosis and treatment.
