[Radioiodine therapy for differentiated thyroid carcinoma: methods used to increase the radiation absorbed dose].
OBJECTIVE
Our aim was to analyze measures taken to increase the radiation absorbed dose (DOSE) during treatment of well-differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) with iodine-131.


METHODS
An increase in DOSE is achieved by: avoiding competition with non-radioactive iodine, stimulating cellular uptake/retention, increasing the administered activity. Basis and results of each one of these methods were reviewed.


RESULTS
Although it is difficult to demonstrate an increase in survival, there is a direct relation between DOSE and tumoral response in DTC. Different approaches can be used aiming an increase in DOSE, with a possible improvement in tumoral response for treatment with iodine-131. Although DTC is a relatively benign disease, a better response to treatment is highly desirable in high-risk patients, who have few other options of therapy.


CONCLUSIONS
An increase in DOSE during treatment of DTC can be achieved using the described interventions, which should be used in high-risk cases of DTC.
UDDO, Serviço de Medicina Nuclear, Hospital Samaritano, São Paulo, SP. mtsapienza@hotmail.com
Marcelo Tatit
MT
Sapienza
Irene Shimura
IS
Endo
Guilherme C
GC
Campos Neto
Marcia G M
MG
Tavares
Marília M S
MM
Marone
D004307:Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation; D006801:Humans; D007457:Iodine Radioisotopes / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D011879:Radiotherapy Dosage; D013964:Thyroid Neoplasms / Q000378:metabolism / Q000532:radiotherapy*
D007457:Iodine Radioisotopes