Definition
An ion is an atom or group of atoms that has an electric charge. Ions with a positive charge are called cations. Ions with a negative charge are called anions.
Many normal substances exist in the body as ions. Common examples include sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, and bicarbonate. (See: Electrolytes)
Ions can be created using radiation such as x-rays. Ionizing radiation is often used for diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.
Related topics:
- Adrenal medullary imaging
- Bone scan
- Gallbladder radionuclide scan
- Gallium (GA) scan
- Isotope study
- Liver scan
- Lung gallium (GA) scan
- Nuclear ventriculography (MUGA or RNV)
- Pulmonary ventilation/perfusion scan
- Radiation therapy
- Radioactive iodine uptake
- Radionuclide cystogram
- Renal venogram
- RHISA scan
- Thyroid scan
- WBC (nuclear) scan
Alternative Names
Cations; Anions
Information