What type of radiation is most common in nuclear medicine?

In nuclear medicine, gamma rays are the most common type of radiation used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. This is primarily due to their ability to penetrate tissues and organs effectively, allowing for high-quality imaging while minimizing patient exposure to radiation.

Gamma rays, emanating from radioactive isotopes used in various radiopharmaceuticals, can be detected by gamma cameras, which are designed to create images of the distribution of these isotopes in the body. This imaging capability is vital for diagnosing conditions, monitoring treatment efficacy, and conducting various therapeutic procedures.

Compared to alpha and beta particles, which have limited penetration capability and are generally more relevant in specific types of treatments or research contexts, gamma rays are preferred in clinical settings for their ability to provide detailed and accurate images of the internal structures and functions of the body. X-rays, while also useful in medical imaging, are formed by a different mechanism and are not classified as nuclear medicine radiations. Therefore, the use of gamma rays is central to the practices and advancements in the field of nuclear medicine.