207U00000X Nuclear Medicine Physician
- Definition
- A nuclear medicine specialist employs the properties of radioactive atoms and molecules in the diagnosis and treatment of disease and in research. Radiation detection and imaging instrument systems are used to detect disease as it changes the function and metabolism of normal cells, tissues and organs. A wide variety of diseases can be found in this way, usually before the structure of the organ involved by the disease can be seen to be abnormal by any other techniques. Early detection of coronary artery disease (including acute heart attack), early cancer detection and evaluation of the effect of tumor treatment, diagnosis of infection and inflammation anywhere in the body and early detection of blood clot in the lungs are all possible with these techniques. Unique forms of radioactive molecules can attack and kill cancer cells (e.g., lymphoma, thyroid cancer) or can relieve the severe pain of cancer that has spread to bone
- Grouping
- Allopathic & Osteopathic Physicians
- Classification
- Nuclear Medicine
- Section
- Individual
- Notes
- Source: American Board of Medical Specialties, 2007. www.abms.org [7/1/2007: definition added, source added; 7/1/2011: modified source]<br/>Additional Resources: American Board of Nuclear Medicine, 2007. http://www.abnm.org/. A doctor of osteopathy was able to obtain a Certificate of Added Qualifications in the field of Nuclear Medicine. The Certificate is NO longer offered.<br/>American Osteopathic Board of Nuclear Medicine, 2007. http://www.osteopathic.org/certification<br/>Board certification for Medical Doctors (MDs) is provided by the American Board of Nuclear Medicine.
Specializations
207UN0903X
In Vivo & In Vitro Nuclear Medicine Physician
A healthcare provider who uses small amounts of radioactive materials to diagnose and treat diseases both inside the body (in vivo) and in the laboratory (in vitro). They help detect and manage conditions such as cancer, heart disease, thyroid disorders, and bone problems. Patients can expect imaging tests like PET or bone scans, as well as specialized blood tests, to help guide diagnosis and treatment.
207UN0901X
Nuclear Cardiology Physician
A healthcare provider who uses small amounts of radioactive materials to create images of the heart and assess its function. They help diagnose and manage heart conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and heart valve problems. Patients can expect specialized tests like nuclear stress tests or heart scans, which help guide treatment and monitor heart health without surgery.
207UN0902X
Nuclear Imaging & Therapy Physician
A healthcare provider who uses small amounts of radioactive materials to create detailed images of the inside of the body and to treat certain diseases. They help diagnose and manage conditions such as cancer, heart disease, thyroid disorders, and bone problems. Patients can expect specialized scans like PET or SPECT and targeted treatments that deliver radiation directly to affected tissues, all overseen by this physician to ensure safety and accuracy.