Nuclear medicine, a diagnostic imaging specialty, comprises examinations
that result in images developed based on the detection of energy
emitted from a radioactive substance given either intravenously or by
mouth. Generally, the amount of radiation given to the patient is
similar to that from standard x-ray examinations.
Nuclear medicine images can assist the physician in diagnosing diseases.
Tumors, infection and other disorders can be detected by evaluating
organ function. Specifically, nuclear medicine can be used to:
- Analyze kidney function
- Image blood flow and function of the heart
- Scan lungs for respiratory and blood-flow problems
- Identify blockage of the gallbladder
- Evaluate bones for fracture, infection, arthritis or tumor
- Determine the presence or spread of cancer
- Identify bleeding into the bowel
- Locate the presence of infection
- Measure thyroid function to detect an overactive or underactive thyroid