ABSTRACT
Potentially the greatest advantage of the MIRD schema is its flexibility for application in a wide range of scenarios, from the very simple to the highly complex. Arguably, the simplest scenario where dosimetry is commonly used is referred to as whole-body (WB) dosimetry. Unlike organ-based dosimetry no measure of the in-vivo activity distribution is made, and the uptake and distribution of the radiopharmaceutical is assumed to be uniform within the body. This chapter introduces the concept of whole-body dosimetry. Methods for calculating absorbed whole body dose are presented with specific emphasis on acquisition of the time activity data and methods for determining time integrated activity. Non-imaging equipment and methods for acquiring whole-body activity measurements are presented with associated quality assurance and acceptance tests for commissioning. Clinical applications of whole body dosimetry are given including examples where whole-body activity data can be used for radiation protection advice and help inform a clinical team when events deviate from standard operating procedure, such as pregnancy following therapy.
