Rhenium-186

Rhenium-186 (Re-186) is a radioisotope of rhenium, a rare metal found in small amounts in the earth's crust. It is used in the field of nuclear medicine for the treatment of certain types of cancer, particularly bone cancer and rheumatoid arthritis.

Physical Properties

Rhenium-186 is a beta emitter with a half-life of 90 hours. It emits beta particles with a maximum energy of 1.07 MeV and gamma rays with an energy of 137 keV. The gamma rays are useful for imaging purposes, allowing doctors to monitor the distribution of the isotope in the patient's body.

Medical Applications

Rhenium-186 is used in the form of rhenium-186 etidronate (HEDP), a compound that is selectively taken up by areas of increased bone turnover, such as cancerous lesions in the bone. This allows for targeted therapy of these lesions.

In addition to its use in treating bone cancer, rhenium-186 is also used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. The isotope is incorporated into a compound known as rhenium-186 sulfide, which is injected into the affected joints. The beta particles emitted by the isotope help to reduce inflammation and pain.

Safety and Side Effects

Like all radioisotopes used in medicine, rhenium-186 carries a risk of radiation exposure. However, the short half-life of the isotope and its targeted delivery to diseased tissues help to minimize this risk. Side effects can include bone marrow suppression, which can lead to anemia and increased susceptibility to infection.

See Also

• Radiotherapy
• Radiopharmaceutical
• Nuclear medicine