Simplified Assessment of Radioiodine Biokinetics for Thyroid Cancer Patients: A Practical Approach Using Continuous External Radiation Monitoring.

INTRODUCTION

The biokinetics of radioiodine (RAI) in thyroid cancer patients are complex. This study aims to develop a practical approach for assessing RAI biokinetics to predict patient discharge time and estimate radiation exposure to caregivers.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed data from patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma undergoing RAI treatment. Serial radiation dose rates were dynamically collected during hospitalization and fitted to a biexponential model to assess the biokinetic features: RAI uptake fraction of thyroid tissue () and effective half-life of extra-thyroid tissue (). Correlations with Tc thyroid uptake ratio (TcUR), radiation retention ratio (RR), renal function, and body mass index (BMI) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Thirty-five patients were enrolled. The derived was 0.08 ± 0.06 and was 7.57 ± 1.45 h. Pearson's correlation analysis revealed a significant association between and both TcUR and RR ( < 0.05), while correlated with renal function and BMI ( < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This novel and practical method assessing RAI biokinetics demonstrates consistency with other parameters and related studies, enhancing the model reliability. It shows promise in predicting an appropriate discharge time and estimating radiation exposure to caregivers, allowing for modifications to radiation protection precautions to follow ALARA principle and minimize the potential risks from radiation exposure.