General Description
Iofetamine hydrochloride I-123 (IMP) is a radiopharmaceutical used for single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging of regional cerebral blood flow. It is a lipophilic amine that crosses the blood-brain barrier rapidly.
Mechanism of Action
After injection, iofetamine I-123 is taken up by the brain in proportion to regional blood flow, with distribution reflecting perfusion to cerebral tissues. It binds non-specifically to high-capacity, low-affinity binding sites on neurons. The iodine-123 isotope emits gamma radiation (159 keV), which is detected by a SPECT camera to generate 3D images of cerebral perfusion.
Application
Iofetamine I-123 was indicated for the evaluation of regional cerebral perfusion in patients with suspected stroke, transient ischemic attacks, dementia, and seizure focus localization. It is also used to assess brain death.