The production, separation, and use of 67Cu for radioimmunotherapy: a review

Abstract

A review of the literature pertaining to the production and separation of (67)Cu. This isotope is useful from both therapeutic and diagnostic standpoints due to its medium energy beta particle, gamma emissions, and 2.6-day half-life. It has been produced via proton, neutron, and gamma irradiations on zinc followed by solvent extraction, ion exchange, electrodeposition, and/or sublimation. Widespread use of this isotope for clinical studies and preliminary treatments has been limited by unreliable supplies, cost, and difficulty in obtaining therapeutic quantities.