Radioactive Isotope of the Month

Welcome to Radioactive Isotope of the Month, where we focus on a different isotope each month, highlighting its characteristics, applications, and safety considerations.

This month’s feature: Lutetium-177 (Lu-177).

Quick Facts about Lu-177

Half-life: Approximately 6.7 days

Decay mode: Beta decay with low-energy gamma emission

Primary use: Targeted cancer therapy, especially for neuroendocrine tumors and prostate cancer

Energy: Beta particles with a maximum energy of 0.498 MeV; gamma photons at 208 keV (11%) and 113 keV (6.4%)

Lu-177 in Medicine

Lu-177 has emerged as a powerful tool in targeted radionuclide therapy, especially for patients with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) and metastatic prostate cancer. By combining Lu-177 with tumor-seeking molecules, clinicians can deliver radiation directly to cancer cells, limiting collateral damage to healthy tissue.

Two major therapeutic applications include:

• Lutathera® (Lu-177-DOTATATE): FDA-approved for treating somatostatin receptor-positive gastroenteropancreatic NETs

• Pluvicto™ (Lu-177-PSMA-617): A recent addition for treating prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-positive metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer

  
  

The gamma component of Lu-177 also enables post-treatment imaging, helping clinicians verify biodistribution and optimize patient care.

Radiation Safety Considerations

While Lu-177's beta emissions are relatively low in energy and tissue penetration (about 1.5 mm on average), its gamma emissions require attention to shielding and exposure control. Proper storage and handling practices include:

• Shielding: Use of lead or tungsten containers to minimize gamma exposure

• Dosimetry: Personal dosimeter badges for all workers handling Lu-177

• Contamination control: Wipe testing and regular area monitoring

• Waste management: Secure storage of radioactive waste until decay is sufficient for disposal

  
  

Because Lu-177 is used in inpatient and outpatient settings, patient release protocols should be in place and aligned with local regulatory guidance.

Need Guidance on Lu-177 Safety?

If your facility works with Lu-177 or is considering adding it to your therapeutic arsenal, we can help ensure you meet all regulatory requirements while maximizing safety and efficiency. Contact us to learn more about how we support radiation safety programs across a wide range of clinical settings.

Join us next month as we explore another important isotope.