How Does Radioiodine Treatment For Hyperthyroidism Work?
Iodine is an element normally taken up in large amounts by the thyroid gland, even more so in cats that are hyperthyroid. When a radioactive form of iodine is given to hyperthyroid cats, the radiation destroys a portion of the thyroid gland. In most cases, only enough radioiodine is given to destroy that part of the gland that is functioning abnormally; these cats return to normal thyroid function following treatment. Because cats undergoing this treatment emit radiation while the radioiodine is in their body, they must be temporarily isolated from people and other animals during the treatment period.
