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

The science behind radioactive iodine therapy 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, 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 cells. The radiation is highly effective against cancer tissues 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 disease, the size and location of the growth, and the patient's overall health. 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 cells 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, гипотиреоз making it easy for the thyroid gland to take it up and absorb it.

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

While radioactive iodine therapy is a highly effective treatment, it is not without side effects. Complications can include changes in thyroid function, decreased blood cell count, and inflammation of the thyroid gland. In some cases, patients may experience more serious disorders, such as damage to surrounding cells 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 care and evaluation, the risks can be minimized, and the therapy can be highly effective in killing cancer tissues and reducing the risk of recurrence.