Question 1

Is nuclear medicine imaging safe? How much radiation is involved?

Accepted Answer

Nuclear medicine procedures involve small amounts of radioactive materials that are carefully calculated based on your weight and the specific test. The radiation exposure from most diagnostic studies is similar to or less than a CT scan. The radioactive materials decay quickly and are eliminated from your body through natural processes within hours to days. The diagnostic benefits far outweigh the minimal radiation risks.

Question 2

What is the difference between a PET scan and a CT scan?

Accepted Answer

A CT scan creates detailed anatomical images using X-rays, showing the size and location of structures. A PET scan uses radioactive tracers to show metabolic activity and function. PET/CT combines both, revealing not only where abnormalities are located but also how metabolically active they are. This is particularly valuable in cancer imaging because tumors often show increased metabolic activity.

Question 3

How long do nuclear medicine procedures take?

Accepted Answer

Procedure times vary significantly. A thyroid scan may take 30 minutes of imaging time but requires waiting 4-24 hours after taking the radioactive iodine. PET scans involve a 60-90 minute uptake period after injection, followed by 20-30 minutes of scanning. Bone scans require 2-4 hours between injection and imaging. Your nuclear medicine department will provide specific timing for your procedure.

Question 4

What is theranostics in nuclear medicine?

Accepted Answer

Theranostics combines diagnostic imaging and targeted therapy using similar radiopharmaceuticals. First, a diagnostic scan identifies if your tumor expresses certain receptors. If positive, a therapeutic version with a different radioactive isotope is administered to deliver targeted radiation directly to tumor cells. This approach is used for neuroendocrine tumors (DOTATATE) and prostate cancer (PSMA) with excellent results.

Question 5

Will I be radioactive after the procedure? Are there precautions I need to take?

Accepted Answer

For most diagnostic procedures, the radiation levels are very low and no special precautions are needed. For therapeutic procedures like radioactive iodine treatment, you may need to limit close contact with others (especially pregnant women and children) for a few days. Your nuclear medicine team will provide specific instructions based on your treatment dose.

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