Targeted Radioisotopes (nuclear medicine)
What are targeted radioisotopes?
Targeted radioisotopes are an advanced nuclear medicine technique that uses radioactive substances to diagnose and treat various diseases, especially cancer. These compounds, known as radiopharmaceuticals, are administered to the patient and travel through the body to reach specific tissues, where they release radiation to destroy tumor cells or generate detailed images of internal organs and structures.
What is this procedure for?
Targeted radioisotopes are primarily used in:
- Diagnostic imaging: To detect abnormalities in organs and tissues using techniques such as positron emission tomography (PET) or single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT).
- Oncological treatment: Used to destroy tumor cells in cancers such as thyroid, prostate, neuroendocrine, and lymphomas.
- Functional evaluation: Used to analyze the functioning of organs such as the heart, kidneys, and brain.
- Therapeutic personalization: Helps adapt treatment according to the specific characteristics of the tumor and the patient.
Benefits of high technology in targeted radioisotopes
Radioisotopes are radioactive atoms that emit controlled radiation. When combined with specific molecules, they form radiopharmaceuticals that selectively target affected tissues or organs. For diagnosis, radioisotopes generate detailed images using gamma cameras or PET. For treatment, radioisotopes deliver radiation directly to tumor cells, destroying them without significantly damaging surrounding healthy tissues.
What is the procedure like?
The procedure with targeted radioisotopes involves:
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Preparation:
Before treatment, your doctor will review your medical history and the results of previous tests, such as biopsies, genetic studies, and molecular analyses. They may also order additional tests to confirm if radioisotope treatment is right for you. In certain cases, you will be asked to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
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During the test:
The radiopharmaceutical will be administered intravenously, orally, or by inhalation, depending on the type of study or treatment you will receive. If the procedure is diagnostic, gamma cameras or PET will be used to record how the radiopharmaceutical is distributed in your body. If it is a therapy, the substance will deliver radiation directly to the tumor cells. The duration of the procedure may vary, but generally ranges from 30 minutes to several hours.
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After the test:
After the procedure, you can resume your normal activities, unless your doctor advises otherwise. Throughout the treatment, you will have regular check-ups to evaluate the response and detect possible side effects. The results will be reviewed with your doctor, who will adjust the therapeutic plan if necessary.
Recommendations for the test
- Avoid close contact: In some cases, it is necessary to limit physical contact with other people for a period to reduce exposure to residual radiation.
- Stay well hydrated: Drink plenty of water after the procedure to help your body eliminate the radiopharmaceutical.
- Follow medical instructions: It is important to follow all instructions before, during, and after treatment to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of the procedure.
Does it have any risks?
The use of targeted radioisotopes is a safe and effective option, although, like any treatment, it can generate some side effects related to radiation:
- Mild discomfort: You may feel nausea, fatigue, or some discomfort in the area where the radiopharmaceutical was administered.
- Local inflammation: In certain cases, inflammation may occur in the treated tissues.
- Radiation exposure: Although doses are carefully controlled, it is essential to follow all instructions from the medical team to reduce any risk.
For your test to proceed smoothly, we ask that you arrive in advance of the indicated time. This will allow us to carry out the necessary administrative and clinical preparation.
Before the test, we will provide you with the Informed Consent, a document with important information that you must read and sign.
If your appointment is for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), it is crucial that you inform us about the presence of pacemakers, metallic objects, prostheses (including dental ones), tattoos, or medication infusion devices, such as insulin pumps.
These diagnostic tests are very safe, but as with any medical procedure, there is a minimal possibility of incidence.
