Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear Medicine physicians manage and treat many types of diseases with the use of radioisotopes. Nuclear physicians use small amounts of radioactive materials or radiopharmaceuticals, both substances that are attracted to specific organs, bones, or tissues. The radiopharmaceuticals used in nuclear medicine emit gamma rays that can be detected externally by special types of cameras. These cameras work in conjunction with computers used to form images that provide data and information about the area of the body being studied. Nuclear physicians also provide specialized therapies for cancer patients.
