Radiotherapy Techniques and the Use of Radioactive Tracers

Radiotherapy Techniques and the Use of Radioactive Tracers

Radiotherapy Techniques

Overview

  • Radiotherapy is a common treatment for many types of cancer. It uses different types of high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells or control their growth.

External Beam Radiotherapy (EBRT)

  • A machine directs a beam of radiation at the area of the body where the cancer is located.
  • The patient does not become radioactive as the radiation does not stay in the body after treatment.
  • EBRT can be directed to treat a specific part of the body, minimising damage to healthy tissues.

Internal Radiotherapy (Brachytherapy)

  • Involves placing a small piece of radioactive material inside the body, either in or near the tumour.
  • This allows a higher dose of radiation to be delivered to the cancer with less damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
  • After brachytherapy, the patient may be radioactive for a short period of time.

Systemic Radiotherapy

  • Radioactive drugs are administered orally or intravenously, which then circulate throughout the body.
  • This method is particularly effective in treating cancers that have spread to various parts of the body.
  • The radioactive material leaves the body via fluids like urine and sweat, and there can be potential risks to others.

Use of Radioactive Tracers

Overview

  • Radioactive tracers are substances that contain a radioactive atom to allow tracking and imaging of the substance as it moves through the body.

Diagnosis

  • Tracers can be used in diagnostic imaging procedures like PET scans to help diagnose certain diseases such as cancer, heart diseases and neurological disorders.
  • They can give important information about the function of organs or tissues.

Treatment

  • Some types of tracers can be used to treat certain conditions. For example, radioactive iodine is used to treat hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer.
  • The radiation emitted by the tracer can destroy disease-causing cells.

Safety Issues

  • The use of radiotherapy and radioactive tracers involves exposure to radiation, which can carry risks.
  • For the patients, these risks are often outweighed by the benefits of diagnosing or treating diseases, but they should be informed about potential side effects.
  • Health professionals who handle radioactive substances should follow strict safety procedures to minimise exposure. This includes the use of lead shielding and radiation monitoring devices.