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Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear medicine is a subspecialty within the field of radiology. Its diagnostic examinations result in images of body anatomy and function. The images are developed based on the detection of energy emitted from a radioactive substance given to the patient, either through the veins (intravenously) or by mouth. Generally, the level of radiation to the patient is similar to that used in standard X-rays.
Cardiac nuclear medicine refers to such diagnostic tests that are used to examine the anatomy and function of the heart. Nuclear medicine images can help doctors diagnose 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 heart function
- Scan lungs for respiratory and blood-flow problems
- Identify gallbladder blockage
- 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
