Answer:
All of the provided options can be used for certain medical diagnostic purposes, depending on the specific medical problem being addressed. Here's a breakdown of how each option can be used to detect medical problems:
Using a radioactive isotope to kill unwanted cells and target diseased tissue: This option refers to a medical treatment technique called radiotherapy. It is used primarily to treat and destroy cancer cells, rather than detect medical problems.
Measuring the half-life of an isotope found in the skin with high-energy gamma radiation from outside the body: This is not a common medical diagnostic method. The half-life of an isotope refers to the time it takes for half of the radioactive atoms to decay. However, measuring the half-life of an isotope in the skin would not be a practical diagnostic technique for most medical problems, as the half-life of an isotope is not typically related to specific diseases or conditions.
Injecting a radioactive isotope that travels to the target tissue and measures the amount of radioactive decay: This is a common diagnostic technique known as nuclear medicine or positron emission tomography (PET). It involves injecting a small amount of a radioactive substance, known as a radiotracer, into the body. The radiotracer emits gamma rays, which can be detected by a special camera. By analyzing the distribution and intensity of the gamma rays emitted by the radiotracer, doctors can identify abnormalities and diseases in the targeted tissue.
Administering a drug that targets replicating cells: This option refers to the use of certain drugs, such as chemotherapy agents or targeted therapies, to treat diseases characterized by rapidly dividing cells, such as cancer. Although these drugs can help detect medical problems by targeting replicating cells, their primary purpose is therapeutic rather than diagnostic.
In summary, the option that is specifically focused on detecting medical problems is injecting a radioactive isotope that travels to the target tissue and measures the amount of radioactive decay through nuclear medicine or positron emission tomography (PET).
Step-by-step explanation:
Doctors can best detect medical problems through various methods, depending on the specific condition being investigated. However, out of the options provided, the most common approach is by injecting a radioactive isotope that travels to the target tissue and measures the amount of radioactive decay.
This method is known as nuclear imaging or nuclear medicine. It involves the use of radioactive tracers, also called radiopharmaceuticals, which are injected into the body. These tracers emit gamma rays that can be detected by special cameras or scanners. By tracking the distribution and intensity of the radiation emitted by the tracer, doctors can identify areas of abnormality or disease.
This technique is particularly useful in diagnosing conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and certain neurological disorders. It allows doctors to visualize the structure and function of organs, tissues, and systems within the body, providing valuable information for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
It is important to note that the specific diagnostic approach may vary depending on the medical problem at hand. Doctors may also utilize other imaging techniques such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), or ultrasound, depending on the nature of the condition and the information required for diagnosis.