RE: Bone Scan

["North, David" <DNorth@Lifespan.org>]

Modern bone-seeking radiopharmaceuticals used in nuclear medicine are
calcium analogs and clear the body principally via the urine with about half
the injected dose excreted in the first 3 hrs after injection. The rest is
incorporated into the bone matrix and turns over only very slowly. The
radionuclide is Tc-99m (6 hr half-life, 140 keV gamma-ray and some low
abundance/energy conversion electrons, Auger electrons, and soft x-rays
which contribute little to the dose). External exposure rates are hard to
predict because they depend a lot on body size and shape, etc. Generally, no
precautions are advised regarding contact with family members or others. The
best thing to do is hydrate well right after the injection to help urine
clearance, and void frequently.

Hope that helps.


David L. North, Sc.M. DABR
Associate Physicist
Department of Medical Physics
Rhode Island Hospital
593 Eddy St.
Providence, RI 02903
ph: (401)444-5961
fax: (401)444-4446
dnorth@lifespan.org

> ----------
> From: 	Mark Settles
> Reply To: 	radsafe@romulus.ehs.uiuc.edu
> Sent: 	Wednesday, April 12, 2000 13:53
> To: 	Multiple recipients of list
> Subject: 	Bone Scan
> 
> I am looking for information for a friend.  He is having a Bone Scan in
> which he will have 21 millicuries of Tc99 injected into his system.  The
> question is;  Are there any concerns he should have or precautions he
> should
> take with body fluids, perspiration, etc.  He does have a 2 month baby in
> the home.   What dose rates will he see contact with his body and where
> will
> be the most concentration?  How long should his body take to rid itself of
> all activity?
> 
> Thanks in advance.  You may reply to me personally at
> 
> msettles@cswnet.com
> 
> Thank you.
> 
> 
> 
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