“When did nuclear medicine first begin?”

Nuclear medicine began as an offshoot of pathology. First studies using a probe and isotopes probably began in the 1950s. Probes were used to evaluate renal function and thyroid uptake of iodine. Radioactive I-131 was used for uptake measurements and therapy of overactive glands. Rectilinear scanners were developed in the 1960s and provided a very crude image. The Anger camera gradually replaced rectilinear scanners which were still being used into the 1980s. Early images were recorded on Polaroid film and later onto photographic film needing development. The Society of Nuclear Medicine as it currently stands was founded in about 1970 with a separate board for certification. Numerous stories about early nuclear medicine are available on line.