What is the primary focus of Nuclear Medicine?

The primary focus of Nuclear Medicine is the use of radioactive materials for both the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions. In this specialty, radiopharmaceuticals are administered to patients, which emit radiation that can be detected by specialized cameras. This imaging technique allows for the visualization of physiological processes in the body, enabling healthcare providers to diagnose conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and other disorders.

Additionally, Nuclear Medicine plays a crucial role in therapeutic applications, where radioactive materials are used to target and destroy diseased tissues, like in certain types of cancer treatment. This dual capability—diagnostic imaging and therapeutic interventions—highlights the unique nature of Nuclear Medicine in offering comprehensive care to patients.

In contrast, other options provided do not accurately reflect the scope and capabilities of Nuclear Medicine. Surgical diagnosis is a method associated with other medical disciplines, while chemical agents for treatment are part of pharmacology and not specific to the use of radioactivity. Standard medical imaging that does not involve radioactivity falls under radiology and does not encompass the functions of Nuclear Medicine.