In the U.S. alone, nearly 2 million stress tests using thalium-201 are performed each year. This kit was a refinement of an earlier version that was developed and distributed in the late 1980s. The kit's most important application is its ability to image the heart as it pumps blood across the circulatory system. Other applications include detection of gastrointestinal bleeding, and spleen, kidney, lung and heart imaging. Development of a tin compound at the High Flux Beam Reactor, to provide cancer patients with relief from excruciating bone pain.
Clinical trials are ongoing.