Yttrium-90
Yttrium-90
Yttrium-90 (pronounced: /ˈɪtriəm ˈnaɪnti/), often symbolized as ^90Y, is a radioactive isotope of Yttrium that is commonly used in medical treatments, particularly in radiation therapy.
Etymology
The term "Yttrium" is derived from the village of Ytterby, Sweden, where the element was first discovered. The "-90" refers to the atomic mass of this particular isotope.
Medical Uses
Yttrium-90 is used in various medical treatments due to its high energy beta emission. It is often used in the treatment of certain types of cancer, including liver cancer and lymphoma. It is also used in radiosynovectomy, a treatment for arthritis.
In cancer treatment, Yttrium-90 is used in a procedure known as selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT). In this procedure, tiny beads coated with Yttrium-90 are injected into the blood vessels that feed the tumor. The radiation emitted by the Yttrium-90 destroys the cancer cells.
Safety and Precautions
As a radioactive substance, Yttrium-90 must be handled with care. It is important to follow all safety guidelines when using this isotope in medical treatments. This includes wearing protective clothing and using shielding to protect against radiation exposure.
Related Terms
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