What is Iodine Therapy?

With technological advancements, scientists have discovered a type of radioactive iodine (131). This is a particular form of iodine that produces radiation. Iodine is a natural element found in several foods consumed daily. This iodine in its natural state is not radioactive and is concentrated in the thyroid gland where it is used to synthesize thyroid hormones.

Since the thyroid gland cannot distinguish between radioactive iodine and non-radioactive iodine, doctors use this type of iodine to destroy the hyperactive areas of the gland.

What is the cost of iodine therapy in Tunisia?

The cost of radioactive iodine 131 therapy in Tunisia varies depending on the length of hospitalization, surgeon’s fees, etc. However, in general, the prices offered in Tunisia are more affordable than those offered in other countries, while offering quality services and qualified surgeons. It is therefore recommended to request a personalized quote from several clinics to compare prices and choose the best option for your procedure.

Iodine Therapy or Iodide Radiotherapy: What You Need to Know Before You Start

In the first few days following radioactive iodine therapy or Iodide Radiotherapy, the body eliminates, through urine, stool, saliva and perspiration, a large part of the administered dose that has not been retained by the residual thyroid cells.

You must bring your medical file with all medical documents relating to recent thyroid pathology and general health status. Before treatment, a complete blood count, liver and kidney function tests, TSH, thyroid hormones, thyroglobulin, anti-thyroglobulin antibodies, and, in women of childbearing age, beta-HCG will be checked to rule out any current pregnancy. Determination of ioduria (amount of iodine in urine) checks if the low-iodine diet has been followed. In some cases, a neck ultrasound is also performed (if not recently performed).

How is Iodine Therapy Performed?

Radioactive iodine is contained in a small capsule that is administered orally with a glass of water. The patient must have been fasting for at least six hours and remain so for at least two hours after taking the iodine therapy. This procedure is quite similar to that used for many other common non-radioactive medications (e.g., antibiotics). It is important to remember that this therapy does not require hospitalization and that the patient can therefore return home while respecting the rules of protection with regard to other people exposed further away (time, distance, hygiene).

What are the Aftereffects of Radioactive Iodine Therapy?

After iodine therapy, radioactive iodine remains temporarily in the body. Most of the iodine is eliminated within the first two days. Elimination is mainly through the urinary tract and, to a lesser extent, through the faeces. Modest amounts of radioactive iodine are also present in saliva, sweat and the mammary gland. Since some of the radiation emitted by radioactive iodine, particularly that present in the thyroid gland, can “leak” out of the body, a few simple precautions should be taken to eliminate or minimize irradiation of the people around us who may be affected. The dose remaining in the thyroid tissue causes the desired medical effect. However, this dose decreases rapidly. This means that the risk of radiation exposure for the patient and others is reduced over time. At the end of treatment, radioactive iodine will have completely disappeared from the body.

Your Radioactive Iodine Therapy in Tunisia with TDS

To determine the appropriateness of radioactive iodine 131 therapy in Tunisia, you can make an appointment with one of our partner physicians by clicking on the quote request form. One of our advisors will guide you in preparing your medical file and in all the necessary steps. An appointment date will be set for the radiotherapy, you will be summoned in the morning, fasting for at least 3 hours.