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What are long-term cancer implications of receiving radiation due to I-131 treatments?

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Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

What are the long-term cancer implications of receiving 1500 to 2000+ mSv of radiation due to I-131 treatments and substantial diagnostic testing?
Answered by Dr. Chitrangada Jitendra

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Chitrangada Jitendra is a Radiologist specializing in Radiodiagnostic techniques. She can do X-ray imaging interpretation and ultrasound diagnostics. She can do a CT (Computed Tomography) scan analysis, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) evaluation, and interventional radiology procedures. She can also do mammography screening and breast imaging. She performs Fluoroscopy-guided interventions and imaging for trauma and emergency care.

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Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The I-131 treatment aims to destroy the remnant thyroid cells in the body. Short-term side effects of RAI (radioactive iodine) treatment are as follows:

  1. Local tenderness and swelling.
  2. Nausea.
  3. Swelling and tender of the salivary glands and resultant dry mouth.
  4. Reduced tear formation.

Radioactive iodine may also affect ovaries, and some women may have irregular periods for a few months. Both men and women who have had RAI therapy may have a slightly increased risk of developing leukemia in the future. Though this is an extremely rare complication.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At June 1, 2018
Reviewed At February 17, 2024

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Chitrangada Jitendra is a Radiologist specializing in Radiodiagnostic techniques. She can do X-ray imaging interpretation and ultrasound diagnostics. She can do a CT (Computed Tomography) scan analysis, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) evaluation, and interventional radiology procedures. She can also do mammography screening and breast imaging. She performs Fluoroscopy-guided interventions and imaging for trauma and emergency care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Chitrangada Jitendra
Dr. Chitrangada Jitendra

Radiology

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Chitrangada Jitendra is a Radiologist specializing in Radiodiagnostic techniques. She can do X-ray imaging interpretation and ultrasound diagnostics. She can do a CT (Computed Tomography) scan analysis, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) evaluation, and interventional radiology procedures. She can also do mammography screening and breast imaging. She performs Fluoroscopy-guided interventions and imaging for trauma and emergency care.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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