Breakthrough alpha-ray treatment of cancer without external radiation

(Osaka University) Radioactive iodine has been used for treatment of thyroid cancer. However, some thyroid tumors become resistant to iodine treatment. An Osaka University research team used a large accelerator to produce sodium astatide for injection, which emits highly therapeutic alpha rays that can be used in cancer treatment. This systemic alpha-ray exposure may enable breakthrough outpatient treatment of cancerous lesions throughout the body without involving external radiation therapy.
Source: EurekAlert! - Cancer - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news