Chapter EH, Problem 31R

Solution

Interpretation : The cold areas in thallium-201 scans that could correspond to artery blockages are to be summarized.

Concept Introduction : The periodic table's symbol for thallium is $\text{Tl}$ which has an atomic number of 81. Thallium is not a naturally occurring element.

The cold areas in thallium-201 scans do not detect the gamma rays and may lead to strokes or heart attacks.

The doctor uses the radioisotope Thallium-201 to detect proper health in the human heart.

The scan performed in the heart using thallium-201 is known as the heart stress test.

A patient engages in physical activity during the scan and receives a thallium-201 injection for two minutes before ceasing the activity.

An image of the heart and its blood supply is displayed in two dimensions using gamma rays that the isotope releases and that are recorded by a detector.

Areas in and around the heart are termed "cool" if gamma rays cannot be detected there.

This indicates a restricted or blocked blood supply, a condition that frequently results in a stroke or heart attack.