What are the two primary categories of radiopharmaceuticals?

Radiopharmaceuticals are primarily categorized into two main types: diagnostic and therapeutic. This classification is based on their intended use in medical practice.

Diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals are used primarily for imaging and assessing various physiological and pathological processes within the body. They help visualize organs, tissues, or systems in order to provide critical information for diagnosis. These agents emit radiation that can be detected by imaging technologies, such as gamma cameras, to create images of the area of interest.

On the other hand, therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals are designed to treat specific diseases, commonly cancers. They work by delivering targeted radiation to cancer cells or tissues, helping to destroy or inhibit further growth. This category includes agents that emit alpha or beta radiation, which have the capability of damaging the DNA of malignant cells.

By understanding these two categories, healthcare professionals can select the appropriate radiopharmaceutical based on the patient's needs, ensuring that effective and safe diagnostic or therapeutic interventions are performed.