cesium-131

Cesium-131 is a radioactive isotope of cesium used as a radiopharmaceutical for internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy), primarily in the treatment of various cancers such as prostate cancer and recurrent head and neck cancers. It emits gamma photons with high energy and has a relatively short half-life of 9.7 days[1][7]. The isotope is typically encapsulated in small seeds that are implanted directly into tumor sites during surgery, delivering localized radiation to cancerous tissue while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue[4][6]. This approach can reduce side effects compared to traditional external beam radiation therapy and may improve patient quality of life by shortening recovery times and eliminating the need for daily clinic visits[4]. Cesium-131’s rapid decay allows for higher initial dose rates with faster resolution than other isotopes like iodine-125 or palladium-103. The seeds are marketed under the brand name "Cesium Blu" by IsoRay[6].

Brand names

Cesium Blu

Other names

cesium 131cesium131cesium-131Cs-131Cs131Cs 131Cesium Cs-131