What does NUK mean in LABORATORY

Nuklearmedizin is the German word for nuclear medicine, which refers to the use of radiation techniques like PET scans and SPECT scans to depict abnormalities in the body's organ systems or tissues.

In nuclear medicine, radioactive substances are injected into, swallowed by, or inhaled by a patient so that a specific area can be viewed using specialized imaging scanners like PET and SPECT. The radioactive substance will emit gamma rays at different levels depending on what part of the body it has been absorbed in, highlighting any potential abnormalities.

Nuclear medicine can also be used for treatments such as radiation therapy or radioimmunotherapy. In these cases, a radioactive material is attached to an antibody or ligand molecule that targets and binds onto tumor cells, delivering localized treatment while minimizing exposure to healthy tissue.

As with any medical procedure involving radiation exposure, some risks are present when undergoing nuclear medical imaging studies. Most of these risks are minor; however more serious side effects may occur if high doses of radiations are used over an extended period of time and patients may be exposed to hazardous doses if multiple tests are done without proper monitoring. Patients should consult their doctor beforehand if they have any concerns about potential risks associated with the procedure.

Nuclear medical procedures typically involve several specialists including radiologists (doctors who specialize in evaluating images generated via x-rays), nuclear pharmacists (who prepare medicines containing radionuclides) and technologists (who operate imaging equipment). These professionals collaborate together to ensure maximum safety and accuracy during each procedure.