Techniques for X-Ray Fluorescence Tomography

New techniques are being explored to improve the sensitivity, resolution and diagnostic information content of currently available x-ray fluorescence techniques for imaging the stable iodine distribution within the thyroid gland. A new source and detector collimation system has been fabricated for a 9-element array of high purity germanium detectors to provide simultaneous longitudinal section images of uptake (Tc-99m pertechnetate) and iodine content. An added feature of this new system is the capability of performing stationary counts to plot vertical profiles of iodine content through any portion of the gland. This new system should be very useful for studies designed to differentiate between malignant and benign thyroid nodules on the basis of iodine content.