Liquid Scintillation Based In-Vitro Analysis of Various Radionuclides in Bioassay Samples

The chapter reviews the literature on application of Liquid Scintillation Counting for in-vitro analysis of various α and β radionuclides in bioassay samples viz., urine and nasal swab samples. Basic mechanism and principle of Liquid scintillation Counting technique is highlighted in this chapter. Metabolism of tritium in the human body is also elaborated. The chapter also presents the various sample preparation techniques along with the quench correction methods for estimation of tritium. Dose control criteria, principle of dose calculation and medical intervention for the same is discussed. Various methodologies adapted for rapid estimation of 90Sr and 32P as high energy beta emitters and 125I and 55Fe as electron capture radionuclides are highlighted. Measurement capability of Liquid scintillation Counting for gross α/β screening in bioassay samples is also illustrated. The chapter reviews various available extractants and methodologies for rapid solvent extraction of Pu/Am coupled with Liquid scintillation Counting. Literature review on non-invasive technique using 14C urea breath test in the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection is highlighted in the present chapter.