Endocrinology

Radioiodine Therapy

Radioiodine therapy is a frequently used type of treatment and is preferred in thyroid cancer. The iodine needed by the thyroid glands to produce thyroid hormone can sometimes be met from food, but in some cases, iodine is used in a radioactive form, similar to the iodine found in foods, with Radioiodine Therapy. So, why is Radioiodine Therapy applied and who is it suitable for? Let's look at the details together.

Why Radioiodine Therapy?

The main purpose of radioactive iodine given to people with Radioiodine Therapy is to fight thyroid cancer. In thyroid cancer, radioactive iodines, which pass through the cancerous cells and destroy them, are preferred for this reason. With this treatment, it is preferred to prevent the recurrence of cancer, especially after surgical procedures. In addition, another benefit of radioactive iodine is to monitor the spread of occult cancer.

Who is Radioiodine Therapy Applied to?

First of all, Radioiodine Therapy applied to patients with thyroid cancer is used to destroy cancerous tissues, but it has some conditions. In order to apply this treatment, the tumor diameter should be over 1 centimeter. If the tumor diameter is less than 1 centimeter, this treatment method can also be applied in patient groups that spread rapidly.

In cases where the tumor is smaller than 1 cm and cancer has not spread, there are cases where only surgery may be sufficient. Radioiodine therapy is usually applied after surgery. Necessary tests are performed and treatment can be started approximately one month after the operation. Of course, the guidance of the doctor in this regard is very important.

How is Radioiodine Therapy Applied?

In order for Radioiodine Therapy to be applied, there are a few issues that patients should pay attention to in order to increase the effectiveness of the treatment. For example, they need to be fed low-iodine-containing foods by following a special diet for 2 weeks. They need to have the necessary tests done in the hospital. In therapy, the active substance, radioactive iodine, is taken orally in the form of capsules, and then the patient has to stay in the treatment room for a few days.

Fibo Health provides quality treatment options in Turkey to the patients who are coming from all around the world. Istanbul is one of the most populous cities in the world. There are many hospitals and clinics that provide world-class care for their patients. Fibo Health’s team searches for the best doctors and hospitals, so we make sure to bring you to the most experienced health care professionals in Turkey.