What is the minimum radiochemical purity for FDG when tested using Thin-Layer Chromatography?

The minimum radiochemical purity for Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) when tested using Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC) is indeed more than 90%. This standard is crucial because high radiochemical purity ensures that the radiopharmaceutical is effective and safe for patient administration. In the context of PET imaging, FDG is used extensively for cancer detection and evaluation of metabolic activity, and impurities can lead to inaccurate imaging results and potential adverse effects in patients.

Ensuring that the radiochemical purity exceeds 90% reflects compliance with regulatory guidelines and strengthens the reliability of diagnostic imaging. The process of TLC helps separate components of the FDG mixture, allowing for the assessment of the radiochemical purity by comparing the desired radiotracer with any possible contaminants. If the purity falls below this threshold, it could indicate the presence of unreacted precursors or byproducts, which can compromise both the imaging quality and the safety of the radiotracer.

In clinical practice, maintaining a high radiochemical purity is essential for the efficacy of FDG as a diagnostic tool, reinforcing the necessity of adhering to stringent quality control measures.