Radiation issue in clinical nuclear molecular imaging

Abstract

Radiation is ubiquitous in nature, and radiation is also widely used in various fields of medicine, agriculture, and industry. Current biological doses below 100 mSv are called low-dose radiation (LDR). Scientists have no consensus of effects on humans below this dose, so a variety of dose-response curve theories have been derived. This approach makes the public believe that even a small dose of radiation has adverse side effects, and overreact to refuse the related medical procedures for fear of radiation. The linear non-threshold (LNT) model has been used in radiation protection for over 40 years however, adverse effects from low dose, low-dose rate (LDDR) exposures are not detectable. Nuclear molecular imaging is LDR, using different radionuclides or combining with specific ligands (carries) to form “radiopharmaceuticals” for functional or pathological evaluations of diseases. As an integral part of patient care, nuclear medicine is used in the diagnosis, management, treatment, follow-up, and prevention of diseases. Therefore, this paper discusses literature review and provides appropriate scientific data and communication to help the peers and the public understand its advantage and disadvantage.