Biological dosimetry after radiation accidents
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Date
1991-10-02
Authors
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
AINSE
Abstract
In the absence of physical estimates from personal monitors or other sources, biological dosimetry may be the only means of reliably estimating the magnitude of an accidental whole body exposure to external radiation. The frequency of unstable chromosomal aberrations in circulating blood cells represents the most sensitive biological measure of radiation damage and development of the basic technique over more than 29 years has resulted in its routine application in radiological protection.
The main limitations of the method are threefold:
1) The lower limit of sensitivity - about 100 mGy for a whole body exposure to gamma rays.
2) The time to obtain a result - normally about 3 man-days is required for the microscope analysis.
3) The problems in interpretation presented by partial body exposure, either to external radiation or to an internally incorporated radionuclide.
Despite these limitations the practical value of the technique was graphically demonstrated in the immediate aftermath of the major accidents at Chernobyl (1986) and Goiania (1987). Initial, very approximate biological dosimetry estimates carried out on several hundred people proved invaluable in identifying those who had received significant exposure. Further more detailed analysis assisted greatly in the medical management of those most severely irradiated. © The Author
Description
Physical copy held by ANSTO Library at DDC: 571.45/15
Keywords
Biological indicators, Blood cells, Chromosomal aberrations, Dosimetry, Radiation Accidents, Sensitivity
Citation
Prosser, J. S. (1991). Biological dosimetry after radiation accidents. Presentation to the 13th AINSE Radiation Biology Conference, 2-4 October 1991, Lucas Heights - AINSE Theatre : conference handbook (programme, abstracts and general information), (pp.45). Lucas Heights, New South Wales : AINSE.