Xenon-133, 127Xe, and 125Xe for lung function investigations: a dosimetric comparison.

Of the possible radionuclides of xenon, 127Xe and 125 Xe have better physical properties for lung function measurement than 133Xe. A comparison of the radiation doses for these three radionuclides has been made for a typical scintillation camera investigation. Using an exponential model for washin and washout of gas, it is shown that the specific activity-time relationship is always equal to the product of the spirometer concentration and the rebreathing period. It is concluded that of the three radionuclides 127Xe gives the lowest radiation dose during a typical lung function study.