Radiopharmaceutical: meaning, definitions and examples
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radiopharmaceutical
[ ˌreɪdioʊˈfɑːrməsuːtɪkəl ]
medical imaging
A radiopharmaceutical is a type of pharmaceutical that contains radioactive isotopes and is used for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes in medicine. They are primarily employed in nuclear medicine to visualize and treat various medical conditions through imaging techniques. These compounds can help track organ function and structure, as well as target specific diseases.
Synonyms
radioactive drug, radiotracer
Examples of usage
- The doctor ordered a radiopharmaceutical for the patient's scan.
- Radiopharmaceuticals play a crucial role in cancer treatment.
- She specializes in administering radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostic imaging.
Word origin
The term 'radiopharmaceutical' is derived from the combination of 'radio-', a prefix indicating radiation or radioactivity, and 'pharmaceutical', which pertains to medicinal drugs. The use of radioactive materials in medicine dates back to the early 20th century, particularly with advances in the understanding of radioactivity pioneered by scientists like Marie Curie. Over decades, the field of nuclear medicine evolved, leading to the development of new techniques and applications for radiopharmaceuticals in diagnostic imaging and therapy. Today, these compounds are integral in diagnosing conditions like cancer, heart disease, and other illnesses where organ function assessments are vital. The innovation and refinement of radiopharmaceuticals have thus transformed modern medical practices and improved patient outcomes.