Radiolääkehoitoa

Radiolääkehoitoa, also known as radionuclide therapy or molecular radiotherapy, is a type of internal radiation therapy used to treat certain types of cancer and other diseases. It involves administering small amounts of radioactive substances, called radiopharmaceuticals, directly into the body. These radiopharmaceuticals are designed to target specific cells or tissues.

The radiopharmaceutical consists of two main components: a radioactive isotope (radionuclide) that emits radiation and a targeting molecule, such as a peptide or antibody, that seeks out and binds to particular cells, often cancer cells. Once administered, usually intravenously or orally, the radiopharmaceutical travels through the bloodstream. The targeting molecule directs the radioactive component to the intended site of action.

The radiation emitted by the radionuclide, typically in the form of beta particles or alpha particles, damages the DNA of the targeted cells, leading to their death. Because the radiopharmaceutical is concentrated in the specific area of disease, it delivers a high dose of radiation to the target while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. This targeted approach can be more effective and have fewer side effects than external beam radiation therapy.

Radiolääkehoitoa is used to treat various conditions, including certain thyroid cancers, neuroendocrine tumors, prostate cancer, and bone metastases. The specific radiopharmaceutical used depends on the type and location of the disease. The treatment is administered and monitored in specialized nuclear medicine departments.