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Activation of airport radiation sensors after radioactive iodine treatment in hyperthyroidism
The background of the study. Patients who are given radioactive substances for diagnosis and treatment may activate radiation detectors in airports or other public facilities. This report described a man with hyperthyroidism who was treated with radioactive iodine, and who activated a radiation detector at an airport.
Case report. A 46-year-old man with hyperthyroidism was treated with 10.8 mCi (400 MBq) of radioactive iodine. He was advised to take precautions to minimize radiation exposure to others, but the possibility that the treatment could activate a radiation detector was not mentioned. Six weeks later he came to the United States. Upon trying to return home, he set off a radiation detector at the airport’s security station. He was further tested, searched, and questioned before being allowed to board the aircraft.
The conclusions of the study. Patients who have received radioactive iodine therapy should be advised that they can activate radiation detectors at airports and other facilities for several months after treatment.
The original article. Gangopadhyay K, Sundram F, De P. Triggering radiation alarms after radioiodine treatment. BMJ 2006;333:293-4.
Next Article: Reducing iodine intake does not alter the efficacy of methimazole |
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| Thyroid Digest Index | | | November 2006 Thyroid Digest |
