Nuclear medicine is a branch of medical science utilizing the nuclear properties of matter for the sake of therapy as well as diagnosis. It is also a part of molecular imaging as the images produced reflect the biological processes occurring at cellular as well as sub cellular levels. Nuclear Medicines are the used as radioactive materials or isotopes for obtaining particular diagnostic information. A pattern of rays is transmitted by the isotopes that represent the shape, size and the functioning of the organ.

Nuclear medicine is a specialized department in the field of radiology. It involves some diagnostic examinations resulting in the images of the anatomy and the functioning of the body. Based on the emission of energy from the radioactive substance inserted to the patients, by mouth or through the veins, the images are developed. The procedures of nuclear medicines make use of the pharmaceuticals labeled with the radionuclides. At the time of diagnosis, the patients are given radioactive substances and the emitted radiation is then detected by the therapist. This will partially solve your question "what are Nuclear Medicines"

The therapist can assess the images of the nuclear medicines in diagnosing the disease. Nuclear medicine is used to:

* Detect the infections, tumors and other disorders of the organs in the body

* Analyze the functioning of the kidney and scanning the lungs for respiratory problems

* Identify the bleeding in the bowel or the blockage of the gall bladder

* Evaluate the bones for fractures, arthritis, or infections.

* Determine the presence of cancer

* Measure the functioning of the thyroid for detecting the over and under active thyroid.

The information generated with the help of the nuclear medicines is unique and cannot be obtained using any other procedures. Nuclear medicines provide you with the most useful information for diagnosing any disease and determining the appropriate treatment. It is a painless procedure associated with no side effects. Allergic reactions to the radiopharmaceutical materials may be seen in very rare cases. It generally takes a day or two for interpreting, reporting as well as delivering the results of the nuclear medicine.

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