Comparative Dosimetry and Risk Coefficient Calculation for 99mTc and 123I in SPECT using the Radiological Toolbox and Federal Guidance Report No.13 Databases

Abstract

This research paper addresses the understanding of radiological principles, more specifically in the context of nuclear medicine diagnostics. The study revolves around two radionuclides, Technetium-99m (^99m^Tc) and Iodine-123 (^123^I), which are both widely applied. They each possess distinctive physical and nuclear properties that have direct and significant influences on both the resulting radiological dose delivered to the patient and risk levels involved. The main methodology of this paper involves an in-depth comparative study of ^99m^Tc and ^123^I used in Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) imaging. This is achieved using the Radiological Toolbox to analyze in-depth and understand their physical properties, such as half-life and photon emission energies. The Federal Guidance Report data base (FGR13-DB) is employed for estimating the absorbed dose and the risk coefficients of every radionuclide administration appropriately. Finally, this study aims to offer the necessary scientific basis for making informed and logical decisions in selecting the optimal radiopharmaceutical for a specific diagnostic procedure. The resultant data is intended to optimize patient outcomes by mitigating superfluous radiation exposure, consequently minimizing the potential for long term health compromise, and concurrently improve diagnostic efficacy.