What is iodine-131 MIBG therapy and how is it administered?

Iodine-131 (1-131) MIBG is a radioactive substance used in the treatment of malignant neuroectodermal tumours (such as pheochromocytoma, paraganglioma, carcinoid tumours, medullary thyroid cancer, neuroblastoma). I-131 MIBG treatment is administered as intravenous infusion.

Rules to be followed in preparation before radioactive iodine treatment:

1. In order to protect the thyroid gland, you should start drinking LUGOL solution at the dose recommended by your physician 3 days before the treatment and continue to use it for 10 days.

2. Since some medicines should be discontinued 48 hours before treatment, please inform your doctor if you are taking any of the medicines listed below.

MEDICINES CONTRAINDICATED FOR USE

Antihypertensive/cardiovascular:

Reserpine

Labetalol, Metaprolol

Calcium channel blockers

Tricyclic antidepressants

Amitriptyline and derivatives

Imipramine and derivatives

Doxapine

Amoxapine

Loxapine

Sympathomimetics

Phenylephrine, Pseudoephedrine

Phenylpropanolamine Amphetamine

Dopamine

Cocaine

MEDICINES AUTHORISED FOR USE

Antihypertensive/cardiovascular

Alpha blocks

Beta blockers

ACE inhibitors

Digital glycosides

Diuretics

Hypnotic, minor tranquilliser

Alfamethylparathyrosine

Analgesics

Morphine and other opoids

Aspirin

Acetominophen

3. Since you will receive a high dose of radioactivity (for treatment purposes), you will be required to stay in a specially prepared single room in our clinic after the procedure. Your room is equipped with a television, refrigerator, toilet and bathroom. It is recommended that you bring your personal belongings such as clean clothes, clothes and towels.

What are the side effects of radioactive iodine treatment?

Temporary nausea may occur after the treatment, in which case you can use anti-nausea medication recommended by your doctor. In patients diagnosed with pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma, high blood pressure may be observed due to treatment. This can be controlled with appropriate medical treatment. A temporary decrease in blood cells may be observed 4-6 weeks after treatment due to bone marrow suppression. You should be in contact with your doctor.

Rules to be followed after discharge from hospital

You need to consume plenty of fluids to protect against the harmful effects of radiation and to ensure rapid excretion from the body. You can use the same toilet and bathroom at home. However, it will be appropriate to pour plenty of water after use. 5-7 days after you are discharged, you should come to the control for a whole body scanning film on the day and time scheduled by your physician. Taking a shower in the morning of that day, changing all your clothes after the shower and wearing clean ones can contribute to a healthier imaging process.

Who is not eligible for iodine-131 MIBG treatment?

PREGNANT AND BREASTFEEDING WOMEN SHOULD NOT BE GIVEN IODINE-131 MIBG TREATMENT