PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - Michael T. Hackett
AU  - Nicolaos Perdikaris
AU  - Theandres T. Ruffin
TI  - Additional Radiation Safety Concerns Involving Sodium Iodide-131 Capsules
DP  - 1995 Dec 01
TA  - Journal of Nuclear Medicine Technology
PG  - 289--290
VI  - 23
IP  - 4
4099  - http://tech.snmjournals.org/content/23/4/289.short
4100  - http://tech.snmjournals.org/content/23/4/289.full
SO  - J. Nucl. Med. Technol.1995 Dec 01; 23
AB  - Objective: We studied the extent of 131I contamination within absorbent packets of activated carbon that are enclosed in one manufacturer’s packaging of 131I therapeutic capsules. Methods: Iodine-131 activity within the absorbent packets of ten 131I capsules was measured 3–5 min after opening each container and over a one workday period. Results: Initial 1311 activity of the absorbent packets ranged from 0.1% to 1.0% of the activity of the respective 131I capsules. Follow-up measurements demonstrated rapid release of 131I. Conclusion: Absorbent packets used in the packaging of 1311 capsules are a source of 131I contamination. They must be handled and stored properly to minimize potential internal exposure to the nuclear medicine staff.