What is Nuclear Medicine?

Nuclear medicine is a specialized field of medicine that uses small amounts of radioactive material to diagnose and treat cancer. The radioactive material is taken up by the cells in the body and can be used to create images of the organ or tissue being studied. This allows doctors to identify any abnormal cells or growths and make a diagnosis.

How Nuclear Medicine is used for Cancer Diagnosis?

Nuclear medicine imaging tests are non-invasive and painless procedures that are used to create images of the inside of the body. These images can help identify any abnormal cells or growths and make a diagnosis. Some common nuclear medicine tests for cancer diagnosis include:

  • Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans
  • Gallium scans
  • Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) scans

Benefits of Nuclear
Medicine for Cancer

A Positive note for preparation

Accurate Diagnosis: Nuclear medicine provides highly accurate and detailed images of the inside of the body, allowing for early and accurate diagnosis of cancer.

Targeted Treatment: Nuclear medicine can be used to target and destroy cancer cells, reducing the risk of damage to healthy cells.

Non-invasive: Nuclear medicine is a non-invasive and painless procedure, with minimal side effects.

What to Expect During
a Nuclear Medicine Consultation

A Positive note for preparation

Accurate Diagnosis: Nuclear medicine provides highly accurate and detailed images of the inside of the body, allowing for early and accurate diagnosis of cancer.

Targeted Treatment: Nuclear medicine can be used to target and destroy cancer cells, reducing the risk of damage to healthy cells.

Non-invasive: Nuclear medicine is a non-invasive and painless procedure, with minimal side effects.

A Positive note for preparation


A Positive note for preparation

Nuclear medicine is the most accurate, non-invasive, and safe diagnostic and treatment option. Our team of experienced professionals use specialized radiopharmaceuticals to target specific areas of the body, minimizing side effects. Our procedures are cost-effective and can help diagnose and treat various conditions. Trust us to provide personalized care for your unique medical needs. Choose nuclear medicine for better health outcomes.

Emotional and
Mental Needs


A Positive note for preparation

At our dedicated cancer care center, we understand that cancer not only affects the body but also the mind and emotions of the patient. That's why we prioritize holistic care and provide resources to support our patients' emotional and psychological wellbeing during their cancer journey. In addition to medical treatment, we offer

  • our cancer support group, Swasam, and
  • various stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and complementary therapies that promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

Adverse Effects


Skin irritation

The area of the body being treated with radiation therapy may become red, dry, and itchy. The skin may also become more sensitive to the sun.

Skin irritation

The area of the body being treated with radiation therapy may become red, dry, and itchy. The skin may also become more sensitive to the sun.

Skin irritation

The area of the body being treated with radiation therapy may become red, dry, and itchy. The skin may also become more sensitive to the sun.

Skin irritation

The area of the body being treated with radiation therapy may become red, dry, and itchy. The skin may also become more sensitive to the sun.

Skin irritation

The area of the body being treated with radiation therapy may become red, dry, and itchy. The skin may also become more sensitive to the sun.

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Fact Check


85%

Nuclear medicine has an average diagnostic accuracy of 85% in cancer detection, compared to 70% for conventional imaging methods alone .

What Can I do to help myself


Asking questions: Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor or healthcare provider questions about your condition, treatment options, and what to expect during your care.

Researching: Take advantage of reliable sources of information, such as reputable medical websites, books, and articles, to learn more about your condition and treatment options.

Build a support network of loved ones and consider joining a support group.

Practice self-care by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeking professional support if needed.

After Treatment | After Care


Post-treatment care ensures recovery and treatment effectiveness:

  • Observation: Monitor for mild side effects like fatigue
  • Home Care: Follow hydration and safety instructions
  • Follow-Up: Repeat scans or blood tests for therapy evaluation
  • Long-Term: Personalized monitoring to prevent recurrence

Get a Screening/Second Opinion from us


Early detection can significantly improve your chances of successful treatment. It’s also a good idea to get a second opinion from our Nuclear Medicine Specialist to ensure that you are getting the most accurate diagnosis and treatment plan possible. Take charge of your health and get the care you need today.

FAQ

Nuclear Medicine procedure and care plan


No recovery time is needed, patients resume normal activities immediately, with tracer radiation gone within 24 hours.

Side effects are rare, limited to minor injection site soreness or very uncommon allergic reactions , radiation is low like a few X-rays.

Disadvantages include minimal radiation exposure, higher cost, and limited availability compared to conventional imaging methods.

 

It detects cancers (e.g., thyroid, bone), heart disease, thyroid disorders, infections, kidney/gallbladder issues, lung problems, and Alzheimer’s.

Yes, radiation exposure equals diagnostic X-rays, tracers clear quickly, posing minimal risk.

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Contact Us


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Appointments

+91 44 4251 5151

Emergency

+91 44 4200 4200

Visit the hospital

MGM Cancer Institute

No 119 & 121, Nelson Manickam Road, Raajeswari Street, Rajaram Mehta Nagar,

Aminjikarai, Chennai – 600029

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