Can Y³⁺ Ions serve as a Tumor Localizer?

Abstract

A possibility was considered of using yttrium salt as a tumor localizer, as proposed in the literature on the basis of a study based on the PIXE technique. The yttrium distribution after the intravenous administration of yttrium nitrate solution to tumor-bearing nude mice was investigated with the use of ⁹⁰Y as a tracer. The radionuclide ⁹⁰Y was produced by the activation of yttrium nitrate. It was characterized with the help of the absorption curve, decay curve and β- and γ-ray spectra. A slight admixture of ⁸⁹Sr was observed. The organ distribution of the radionuclide produced in tumor-bearing nude mice was established on the basis of measuring ashed tissues, since fresh as well as dried tissues exerted remarkable self-absorption effects. No selective accumulation of the radioyttrium in the tumors was observed for subcutaneously located osteosarcoma and rectal carcinoma. The highest concentrations were found in the lungs, spleen and liver.

Keywords:

• carcinomas
• diagnostic techniques
• intravenous injection
• mice
• neoplasms
• nuclear medicine
• osteosarcomas
• radioisotopes, radionuclide kinetics
• tissue distribution
• yttrium 90
• yttrium nitrates