Nuclear medicine uses small amounts of radioactive materials to diagnose and treat a range of diseases. Specialists perform imaging scans such as PET and SPECT to detect cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders, and administer targeted radioisotope therapies.
A nuclear medicine specialist uses radioactive tracers to perform diagnostic imaging such as PET scans, bone scans, and thyroid scans. They also administer therapeutic radioisotopes for conditions like thyroid cancer and certain bone pain from metastatic disease.
Yes, nuclear medicine procedures use very small amounts of radioactive material that are eliminated from the body quickly. The radiation exposure is generally comparable to or less than that of a standard CT scan, and procedures are carefully regulated for safety.
A CT scan uses X-rays to create structural images of the body. A PET scan uses radioactive tracers to show metabolic activity and how organs and tissues are functioning. Often both are combined in a PET-CT scan for detailed anatomical and functional information.
Nuclear medicine therapies are used to treat overactive thyroid, thyroid cancer with radioactive iodine, certain neuroendocrine tumors, and bone pain from cancer that has spread to bones. The radioactive material targets specific cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
Preparation varies by scan type. Generally, you may need to fast for several hours, avoid caffeine, stay hydrated, and inform your doctor about current medications, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Specific instructions will be provided before your appointment.