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Radioactive iodine therapy is a common medical approach used to kill cancer cells in the thyroid gland. The therapy works by targeting tissues that absorb iodine and emitting radiation to destroy them. This approach is effective because the thyroid gland relies heavily on iodine to produce chemicals.

The science behind radioactive iodine treatment is based on the thyroid gland's natural process of absorbing iodine from the bloodstream. The gland uses iodine to produce thyroid hormones, which are essential for regulating growth, development, гипотиреоз and health. To deliver radioactive iodine to the thyroid gland, patients are given a small dose of radioactive iodine orally or via intravenous delivery. The radioactive iodine is absorbed into the bloodstream and is then carried to the thyroid gland, where it is concentrated in the gland's cells.

Once inside the thyroid tissues, the radioactive iodine emits radiation that destroys the cells. The radiation is highly effective against cancer cells in the thyroid, targeting them specifically without harming surrounding normal tissue. The radiation also has a short duration, ensuring that it doesn't damage adjacent cells or affect other parts of the body.

The effectiveness of radioactive iodine treatment depends on several factors, including the type and stage of thyroid cancer, the size and location of the growth, and the patient's overall well-being. In some cases, the treatment may be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as surgery or radiation treatment.

The radiation emitted by radioactive iodine is highly specific, targeting only the tissues that absorb iodine. This is because iodine is selectively taken up by the thyroid gland through a process called iodide uptake. The thyroid gland has a high concentration of sodium-iodide transporters, which are proteins that help transport iodine into the cells. Radioactive iodine is designed to mimic the natural iodine, making it easy for the thyroid gland to take it up and capture it.

In addition to destroying cancer tissues, radioactive iodine treatment also helps to reduce the risk of cancer relapse by removing any remaining cancer cells in the thyroid gland. The treatment is usually given in a single dose, and the effects can be seen in a matter of hours to days after the therapy.

While radioactive iodine treatment is a highly effective therapy, it is not without side effects. Side effects can include changes in thyroid function, decreased blood cell production, and inflammation of the thyroid gland. In some cases, patients may experience more serious complications, such as damage to surrounding cells or increased risk of radiation exposure to others.

However, the benefits of radioactive iodine treatment far outweigh the side effects for many patients. With proper medical supervision and evaluation, the risks can be minimized, and the therapy can be highly effective in killing cancer tissues and reducing the risk of recurrence.