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Generally, the energy of emitted radiation in nuclear medicine scans is
similar to that of plain X-ray studies and CT scans. The amount of
radiation received by the patient is similar to normal X-ray studies
and less than a CT scan. As with any radiation, there is potential for
cell damage and mutations in egg or sperm cells.
The target organs of the isotope in the examination may receive the
majority of the radiation dose, however, the amounts used are strictly
controlled and regulated to use the least amount necessary for the purpose
of imaging.
The radiation doses used for treatment of certain disorders (for instance,
iodine for thyroid disease) are many times greater and will require
additional instructions to protect others during treatment.
For radiation, the greatest concern is with pregnant or nursing women. Infants
and fetuses are more sensitive to the effects of radiation because they are
still undergoing organ development.
Higher doses of radiation and repeated exposures to radiation increase
risk. Radioactive materials decay (release energy and then transform
into non-radioactive atoms) at specific rates as the body continuously
removes them (usually filtered by the lungs, kidneys, or liver, depending
on the compound used.) Thus, all radioisotope activity eventually ceases,
usually within a few hours or days.
Risks related to injections and allergic reactions to the radioisotope
exist, but are extremely rare.
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Nuclear Medicine Scan
