Säteilylääkkeiden

Säteilylääkkeiden, also known as radiopharmaceuticals, are radioactive drugs used in nuclear medicine for both diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. These substances consist of a radioactive isotope (radionuclide) attached to a specific molecule that targets a particular organ, tissue, or cell type within the body. The targeting molecule directs the radiopharmaceutical to the desired location, where the emitted radiation can then be detected by imaging equipment or used to damage diseased cells.

Diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals are administered in very small, safe doses. The emitted radiation is detected by external imaging devices like PET (positron emission tomography) or SPECT (single-photon emission computed tomography) scanners. These scans provide detailed images of the body's internal structures and functions, helping doctors identify abnormalities such as tumors, blockages, or inflammation. For example, technetium-99m is a commonly used radionuclide for various diagnostic scans.

Therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals are administered in higher doses to deliver radiation directly to diseased cells, primarily cancer cells. The radioactive isotope emits particles or gamma rays that can kill or damage these cells, thereby treating the condition. Iodine-131 is a well-known example used to treat thyroid cancer and hyperthyroidism. Other therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals are designed to target specific receptors found on cancer cells, delivering a cytotoxic payload to minimize damage to healthy tissues. The use of säteilylääkkeiden requires specialized facilities and trained personnel due to the radioactive nature of these substances.