Nuclear Oncology

What are isotopes?

Isotopes are variations of common chemicals (chlorine, sodium, technetium, etc.) Which varies the number of neutrons (a part of the chemical element).

These isotopes can be stable, ie not emit radiation or radioactive, ie, they emit radiation, this radiation can be electromagnetic radiation like gamma emissions of particles like alpha and beta.

The radioisotopes used in medicine are usually artificial and come from nuclear reactions.

Radioisotopes used in nuclear medicine and are selected so that, according to their characteristics follow a specific biochemical pathway, looking at different structures where, in connection with the issuance of its radiation can be detected.

Why are administered via radioisotopes?

The administration of these radiopharmaceuticals can be oral, intravenous, intracavitary (ie abdominal) but the most common form is the oral and intravenous.