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2021-06-17

What are two atoms called when they have the same atomic number but a different mass number?

What are two atoms called when they have the same atomic number but a different mass number?

Two atoms with the same atomic number, but different mass numbers (same number of protons, different number of neutrons), are called isotopes, or isotopic nuclides. Having different numbers of neutrons changes the mass of these atoms, so isotopes have slight variations in their physical and chemical behavior.

Which radioisotope is used for the diagnosis of tumor in the body?

Radioisotope scan to detect tumors. Technetium-99m is perhaps the most widely used radioisotope in diagnosis and treatment (the “m” stands for metastable). This isotope decays to Tc-99 and a gamma emission of low intensity, making the radiation damage fairly negligible.

Why is the thyroid sensitive to radiation?

The thyroid absorbs available iodine from the bloodstream. The thyroid gland cannot distinguish between stable (regular) iodine and radioactive iodine and will absorb whatever it can. In babies and children, the thyroid gland is one of the most radiation-sensitive parts of the body.

Can radiation damage your thyroid?

Damage to the thyroid gland after cancer is usually the result of radiation to the head, brain or neck. This damage is usually very easy to treat, although it may not show up for years after treatment. Regular check-ups may help find thyroid problems early so that the proper treatment can be started.

How can I protect my thyroid from radiation?

KI (potassium iodide) is a salt of stable (not radioactive) iodine that can help block radioactive iodine from being absorbed by the thyroid gland, thus protecting this gland from radiation injury. The thyroid gland is the part of the body that is most sensitive to radioactive iodine.

What is thyroid collar?

A thyroid guard or thyroid shield is a lead collar that wraps around your neck to block the radiation that’s generated in making X-ray images.

Are thyroid collars necessary?

Protective thyroid collars and collimation substantially reduce radiation exposure to the thyroid during dental radiographic procedures. Because every precaution should be taken to minimize radiation exposure, protective thyroid collars should be used whenever possible.