Radioactive iodine treatment is a common medical approach used to kill cancer cells in the thyroid gland. The treatment works by targeting cells that absorb iodine and emitting radiation to destroy them. This process is effective because the thyroid gland гормоны щитовидной железы 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 metabolism, growth, and development. 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 cells, the radioactive iodine emits radiation that destroys the tissues. The radiation is highly effective against cancer tissues in the thyroid, targeting them specifically without harming surrounding healthy tissue. The radiation also has a short range, 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 disease, the size and location of the growth, and the patient's overall well-being. In some cases, the therapy 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 iodine absorption. The thyroid gland has a high concentration of sodium-iodide transporters, which are proteins that help transport iodine into the tissues. 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 tissues in the thyroid gland. The treatment is usually given in a single administration, and the effects can be seen in a matter of hours to weeks after the therapy.

While radioactive iodine treatment is a highly effective treatment, it is not without side effects. Complications can include changes in thyroid health, decreased blood cell count, and inflammation of the thyroid gland. In some cases, patients may experience more serious disorders, such as damage to surrounding tissues or increased risk of radiation leakage to others.

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