[The 32P test in ophthalmology].

Abstract

Rapidly proliferating tissue incorporates more phosphorus than normal. Thus, following administration of radioactive phosphorus (32P), tumors emit increased amounts of radiation which can be detected. With the proper test technique, a correct diagnosis rate of 96-100% is quoted in the literature. By comparison, between 4 and 20% of all eyes enucleated for suspected malignant melanoma without prior 32P testing contained no neoplasm histologically. The radiation exposure is minimal due to the short half-life of 32P and the low penetration of beta-particles. However, the test usually involves a small operation (conjunctiva and Tenon incision). Testing with gamma rays, however, is not yet wholly satisfactory due to the lack of a suitable gamma-ray detector.