ydinlääketiede

Ydinlääketiede, known in English as nuclear medicine, is a medical specialty that uses radioactive substances called radiopharmaceuticals to diagnose and treat disease. These radiopharmaceuticals are introduced into the body, either by injection, swallowing, or inhalation. The radioactive atoms in the radiopharmaceuticals emit gamma rays, which are detected by a special camera called a gamma camera. This camera creates images of the distribution of the radiopharmaceutical within the body, revealing how organs and tissues are functioning.

The primary use of nuclear medicine is in diagnostic imaging. Techniques like SPECT (Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography) and PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scans provide functional information about organs and tissues, complementing the anatomical detail provided by X-rays or CT scans. This functional imaging is crucial for detecting diseases at an early stage, assessing the extent of disease, and monitoring treatment effectiveness. Common applications include the diagnosis of heart disease, cancer, thyroid disorders, and neurological conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

Beyond diagnosis, nuclear medicine also plays a role in therapy. Certain radioactive substances can be targeted to specific tissues or organs to deliver a therapeutic dose of radiation, destroying diseased cells. This is particularly effective in treating cancers, such as thyroid cancer, and some forms of bone pain. The administered radiation doses are carefully controlled to minimize damage to healthy tissues. Nuclear medicine procedures are generally safe, with radiation exposure to patients and staff kept as low as reasonably achievable.