Contamination results when a radioisotope (as gas, liquid, or solid) is released into the environment and then ingested, inhaled, or deposited on the body surface.
After inhalation, ingestion, or wound contamination, small radioisotope particles may be transported via blood or lymphatics into cells, tissues, and organs.
Specific medications (decorporation agents) or other procedures (e.g., diuresis) may be needed to remove radioisotopes that have been incorporated into tissues.
Toxic effects of radioisotopes may be due to their chemical and/or radiological properties.
