Ortho-Iodohippuric acid

Ortho-Iodohippuric acid

Ortho-Iodohippuric acid (also known as OIH) is a radioactive tracer used in nuclear medicine for the evaluation of renal function. It is a derivative of hippuric acid, with an iodine atom attached to the ortho position of the benzene ring.

Chemistry

Ortho-Iodohippuric acid is a small organic compound with a molecular weight of approximately 321.1 g/mol. It consists of a benzene ring, to which a carboxylic acid group and an iodine atom are attached at the ortho position. The iodine atom can be radiolabeled with Iodine-123 or Iodine-131, making it suitable for use as a radioactive tracer.

Medical Use

In nuclear medicine, Ortho-Iodohippuric acid is used in the renal scan, a type of medical imaging that evaluates the function and anatomy of the kidneys. After intravenous injection, OIH is filtered by the kidneys and excreted in the urine. The rate of this process can be measured using a gamma camera, providing information about renal function.

Safety and Side Effects

As with all radioactive tracers, the use of Ortho-Iodohippuric acid carries a risk of radiation exposure. However, the doses used in medical imaging are generally low and the benefits of accurate diagnosis typically outweigh the risks. Side effects are rare, but may include allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to iodine.

See Also

• Hippuric acid
• Nuclear medicine
• Renal function
• Medical imaging

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