Immunoscintigraphy

Immunoscintigraphy is a medical imaging technique that uses radiolabeled (radioactive) antibodies to detect and locate specific antigens, such as tumor cells, in the body. This technique is used in the diagnosis and treatment of certain types of cancer.

Overview

Immunoscintigraphy is a type of nuclear medicine imaging that uses radiopharmaceuticals to create images of the inside of the body. The radiopharmaceuticals used in immunoscintigraphy are antibodies that have been labeled with a radioactive substance. These antibodies are designed to bind to specific antigens, such as those found on tumor cells. When the antibodies bind to the antigens, they emit radiation that can be detected by a special camera, creating an image of the area where the antigens are located.

Procedure

The procedure for immunoscintigraphy involves injecting the patient with the radiolabeled antibodies. The antibodies then travel through the body and bind to the specific antigens. After a certain period of time, the patient is scanned with a special camera that can detect the radiation emitted by the antibodies. The resulting images can show the location and size of any tumors that contain the antigens.

Uses

Immunoscintigraphy is used in the diagnosis and treatment of certain types of cancer, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, and colorectal cancer. It can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of cancer treatments and to detect any recurrence of the cancer.

Risks

As with any medical procedure, there are some risks associated with immunoscintigraphy. These can include allergic reactions to the radiolabeled antibodies, and exposure to radiation. However, the amount of radiation used in immunoscintigraphy is generally low and is considered safe for most patients.

See also

• Nuclear medicine
• Radiopharmaceuticals
• Cancer diagnosis
• Cancer treatment

References

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