A solution of selenium-75, a radioisotope used in the diagnosis of pancreatic disease, is found just prior to administration to have an activity of 44 μCi/mL. If 3.98 mL were delivered intravenously to the patient, what dose of Se-75 (in μCi) did the patient receive?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the given values: the activity of the solution is 44 \( \mu \text{Ci/mL} \) and the volume delivered is 3.98 mL.
2. Understand that the dose received by the patient is the product of the activity per unit volume and the total volume delivered.
3. Set up the equation for the dose: \( \text{Dose} = \text{Activity} \times \text{Volume} \).
4. Substitute the given values into the equation: \( \text{Dose} = 44 \mu \text{Ci/mL} \times 3.98 \text{ mL} \).
5. Perform the multiplication to find the total dose in \( \mu \text{Ci} \).

Key Concepts

Radioactivity

Radioactivity is the process by which unstable atomic nuclei lose energy by emitting radiation. This decay can occur in various forms, including alpha, beta, and gamma radiation. The activity of a radioactive substance, measured in curies (Ci) or microcuries (μCi), indicates the rate at which decay occurs, which is crucial for understanding the dosage and safety of radioisotopes in medical applications.

Dosage Calculation

Calculating the dosage of a substance involves determining the total amount administered based on its concentration and the volume delivered. In this case, the activity concentration of selenium-75 is given in μCi/mL, and by multiplying this concentration by the volume administered (in mL), one can find the total dose received by the patient in microcuries.

Medical Applications of Radioisotopes

Radioisotopes like selenium-75 are used in medical diagnostics and treatments due to their ability to emit radiation that can be detected by imaging equipment. Understanding their properties, such as half-life and decay modes, is essential for ensuring effective and safe use in diagnosing conditions like pancreatic disease, as well as for calculating appropriate dosages for patients.