Thorotomi

Thorotomi is a term that refers to the presence of thorium in biological tissues. Thorium is a naturally occurring radioactive chemical element. While it is found in the Earth's crust, its presence in living organisms is typically due to environmental contamination or occupational exposure. Thorotomi is not a disease but rather a descriptive finding. The primary concern with thorium in the body is its radioactivity, which can pose health risks over time.

Exposure to thorium can occur through inhalation of dust or aerosols containing thorium, ingestion of contaminated food or water, or through medical procedures where thorium-containing contrast agents were historically used, such as Thorotrast. Thorotrast, a colloidal suspension of thorium dioxide, was used as a radiological contrast agent from the 1930s to the 1950s. Individuals who received Thorotrast can retain thorium in their liver, spleen, and lymph nodes for many years.

The health effects of thorotomi depend on the amount of thorium deposited, its distribution within the body, and the duration of exposure. Due to its radioactivity, thorium can cause cellular damage and increase the risk of developing certain cancers, particularly liver cancer and bile duct cancer, in individuals exposed to Thorotrast. Monitoring and management strategies for individuals with known thorotomi focus on assessing internal contamination levels and providing medical surveillance for potential long-term health consequences.