Nuclear medicine is a medical specialty that uses small amounts of radioactive materials to diagnose and treat diseases. It involves imaging techniques, such as PET scans and SPECT scans, which help visualize the function of organs and tissues in the body. By tracking the distribution of these radioactive substances, doctors can identify abnormalities and monitor the effectiveness of treatments. In addition to diagnosis, nuclear medicine can also be used for therapy. For example, radioactive iodine is commonly used to treat thyroid cancer and hyperthyroidism. This approach allows for targeted treatment, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues while effectively addressing the disease.