What is Iodine-131 (I-131) Therapy?
Iodine-131 (I-131) therapy is a form of treatment used primarily for two conditions related to the thyroid gland: hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer. It involves the administration of radioactive iodine in a controlled dose to target and destroy thyroid tissue.
This treatment is effective because the thyroid gland is the only organ in the body that absorbs iodine, whether it's radioactive or not. Therefore, I-131 therapy can selectively target thyroid cells without affecting other tissues significantly.
Side Effects of Iodine-131 (I-131) Therapy
While generally considered safe and effective, I-131 therapy can have some side effects, which typically depend on the dose administered and the individual's response. Common side effects include:
- Nausea and Vomiting: Some patients may experience mild nausea shortly after treatment, which usually subsides quickly.
- Dry Mouth or Eyes: Temporary dryness in the mouth or eyes may occur due to reduced saliva or tear production.
- Neck Tenderness: There might be some discomfort or swelling in the neck area where the thyroid gland is located.
- Radiation Exposure: Because I-131 is radioactive, patients may emit small amounts of radiation for a short period. This necessitates precautions to minimize exposure to others, especially pregnant women and children.
Serious side effects are rare but may include allergic reactions or inflammation of the salivary glands.
How is Iodine-131 (I-131) Therapy Diagnosed?
Before undergoing I-131 therapy, patients undergo specific diagnostic procedures to determine the appropriate course of treatment:
- Thyroid Scan: A thyroid scan using radioactive iodine or technetium-99m pertechnetate helps assess the size, shape, and function of the thyroid gland. This scan provides crucial information about the condition of the thyroid and guides the decision to proceed with I-131 therapy.
Potential Benefits of Iodine-131 (I-131) Therapy
The primary benefits of I-131 therapy include:
- Effective Treatment: It is highly effective in managing hyperthyroidism by reducing thyroid hormone production or in treating thyroid cancer by destroying cancerous thyroid cells.
- Non-invasive: Unlike surgery, I-131 therapy is non-invasive and typically does not require anesthesia.
- Outpatient Procedure: Patients often receive treatment as outpatients, returning home the same day or within a short hospital stay.
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