Iron 59 (Fe 59) is a radioisotope of Iron, having a mass number of 59, an atomic number of 26 and a half-life period of only 44.5 days. Iron is known to have 28 isotopes, with four being radioactive. Iron 59 is a heavy iron radioisotope which emits beta particles and gamma rays, and it is known to have several uses. In this article, we shall discuss the actual benefits of Iron 59 and importance.
Let us dive deep into it and learn.
Uses of Iron 59 (Fe 59)
Caution: Iron 59 is hazardous due to its radioactivity and can cause fatalities.
Medical Industry
- The most prominent use of this radioisotope is in the field of medicine, and its significant role has been seen in haematology. According to research, it is injected into the blood that labels the plasma iron pool, which then helps measure iron clearance and calculate plasma iron turnover. When it appears in haemoglobin, it is possible to gauge the pace of haemoglobin production and the extent of iron utilisation. Since it emits γ-rays, radioactivity may be evaluated in vivo, determining the likely locations for erythropoiesis and the sites where supplied Iron is distributed.
- Also, ferrous citrate Fe 59 intravenously measures different aspects of the kinetics of iron metabolisms, such as plasma iron clearance, plasma iron turnover rate, and the use of Iron in developing red blood cells. It is even used for checking the lack of red blood cell production.
- Iron 59 (Fe 59) is used in ferrokinetics. Ferrokinetics is a methodology used for tracing the movement of Iron in the human body (or any other animal) and studying its movement and turnover rate. It is used primarily to study iron metabolism in the body, and Iron 59 (Fe 59) is used as the tracer for this process.
Target Organs
The target organ is the spleen. The assessment to check the production of red blood cells in the spleen and its decay helps medical professionals diagnose ailments.
Ferrokinetics with Iron 59 helps detect any form of anaemias so that it can be treated and eradicated soon. This method is also used to check the liver and bone marrow for any unusual deposits of Iron.
Is Iron 59 dangerous?
Yes, Iron 59 (Fe 59) has some dangerous elements. All radioactive chemicals are hazardous as they are carcinogenic and can even cause death. While dealing with this, it is crucial to use protective gear like shields, hand gloves and eye-protection gear. Skin exposure must be avoided; immediately seek medical assistance if it touches the skin. It is recommended to use it in lead-shielded areas.
Final Takeaway
To conclude, Iron 59 (Fe 59) is widely used in the medical industry to study iron metabolism and red blood cell production and destruction in the human body (or any other animal). It is used in ferrokinetics that helps in checking the kinetic parameters and detecting any form of anaemias and unusual iron deposits in the spleen, bone marrow or liver.
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