Who Is A Candidate For Radioactive Iodine Treatment & Health?
Radioactive iodine therapy, also known as radioiodine (RAI) ablation is a treatment for individuals with certain forms of thyroid cancer as well as for people who have diffuse goiters and other thyroid-related conditions. Patients must meet certain criteria in order to be eligible for radioactive iodine treatment, including the type and stage of their cancer and their overall health.
What Does Radioactive Iodine Treatment Do?
Radioactive iodine therapy is a form of targeted radiation therapy that targets only the thyroid gland. It uses iodine, a naturally-occurring element, to deliver radiation to and destroy the cancer cells, while also reducing the size of the thyroid or eliminating it altogether. The radiation also helps to reduce the risk of recurrence and also supports thyroid hormone regulation.
Who Is A Candidate For Radioactive Iodine Treatment?
People who have been diagnosed with cancer of the thyroid and who have not responded to other treatments may qualify for radioactive iodine treatment. This includes individuals with metastatic thyroid cancer, follicular or papillary thyroid cancer and medullary thyroid cancer. Other conditions that can be treated with radioactive iodine therapy include hyperthyroidism and diffuse goiter (an enlarged thyroid gland). A person must have a positive thyroid scan in order to receive the treatment.
How Can a Patient Prepare for Radioactive Iodine Treatment?
Prior to being treated with radioactive iodine, a patient must undergo specialized tests including a thyroid scan and blood tests. Depending on the results, the doctor or radiation oncologist may recommend a course of radiation therapy before the patient receives the radioiodine ablation.
Patients must also prepare their body and home for the radioactive iodine benefit. This includes avoiding certain foods and beverages that contain iodine, discontinuing certain medications, and taking steps to reduce her exposure to radiation after the treatment.
What Kind of Follow-up Care is Required After Radioactive Iodine Treatment?
Doctors will typically want to follow up with their patients via ultrasound, blood tests, and other tests to ensure that the patient is receiving the necessary treatment and monitoring. Patients may also need to take thyroid hormone replacement medications to regulate hormone levels.
In conclusion, radioactive iodine treatment is a safe and effective way to treat certain conditions affecting the thyroid gland. Patients must meet certain criteria in order to be eligible for radioactive iodine treatment and must prepare themselves before and after the treatment. Close medical monitoring is necessary to ensure a successful outcome.
