Jornal de Radiologia Clínica e Experimental

Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear medicine imaging is a type of medical imaging, which utilises radiotracers that help in diagnosis of various diseases like cancer, heart problems, gastrointestinal problems, other abnormalities present in the body. This type of scans usually provides apt and precise results which are needed to make the diagnosis at an early stage. They help in diagnosis of the type of cancer, either benign or malignant. The radioactive elements are used in a trace amount which is then injected, swallowed or inhaled. These elements then enter into the area which has to be examined and releases out energy in the form of gamma rays. These rays are then captured with the help of special camera and a computer and images are produced. In extremely rare cases the radiotracers being used can show mild allergic reactions on the patients. Nuclear medicine imaging is relatively less expensive as compared to few other diagnostic tests available.