Overview
Iodine 131 metaiodobenzylguanidine is a norepinephrine analog labeled with I 131 used for diagnostic imaging and targeted radiotherapy in select neuroendocrine tumors.
Properties
I 131 emits beta and gamma radiation enabling both therapeutic effect and gamma imaging; uptake reflects catecholamine transporter activity.
Uses
Used for localization and treatment of pheochromocytoma, paraganglioma and some neuroblastomas under specialized protocols.
Safety
Significant radiation dose requires inpatient isolation for therapy doses and strict radiological safety, thyroid blockade and patient counseling.