Fundamentals of radioimmunotherapy

Design of a radioimmunotherapy trial is a complex process. This involves antibody selection, choice of radioisotope, and labeling method. Observation of the behavior of the new radiopharmaceutical involves determination of normal organ and tumor uptake, as well as residence time. Calculation of external radiation absorbed dose must also be performed, and criteria set for therapy. Once treatment has taken place, mechanisms for patient follow-up must be implemented. This contribution discusses important considerations in the design and implementation of a clinical trial in radioimmunotherapy.