The Impact of Atomic Energy on Biology and Medicine

Outstanding advances made from 1951 to 1961 are discussed, particularly with regard to the use of radioisotopes as tracers in biochemical experiments and for diagnostic and therapeutic techniques. The following diagnostic applications are considered: measurement of myocardial blood flow; localization of tumors; liver and kidney function tests; and vitamin B/sub 12/ absorption. Of the armament of artificially produced radioelements, several hundred in number, only about a dozen promises to be useful in medical applications. This smali number is predicated by reasons of toxicity on one hand and of useful half life on the other. (H.H.D.)