Definition
Nuclear medicine uses small amounts of radioactive materials to diagnose and treat diseases. It involves injecting, swallowing, or inhaling these materials, which then emit gamma rays that can be detected by special cameras. Think of it as a high-tech imaging system that reveals the inner workings of your body. Nuclear medicine can be used to diagnose conditions like cancer, heart disease, and thyroid disorders. It's also used for targeted therapy, delivering radiation directly to cancerous tumors. This field combines the power of physics, chemistry, and medicine for improved patient care.