X-Irradiation effects on the human fetus
The emnbryo, particularly between days 18 and 38, and the later fetus, represent the most radiosensitive stages in the life of human beings, due largely to the presence of actively differentiating cells involved in organogenesis. During certain periods of development, monstrosities in the offspring may be produced by low level therapeutic or even diagnostic exposures of the pregnant woman. Teratologies are less likely as the embryo becomes a fetus and are never formed by irradiation of the fully developed adult. Nevertheless, the damaging effects of ionizing radiations become more subtle with advancing fetal age and may well produce viable but psychologically illadjusted individuals. It is concluded that the x irradiation of the pregnant woman, particularly in the early trimester, should be discouraged under all conditions, short of saving the life of the mother. Further, it would be a wise practice to determine the time of the prior menses in all radiological examinations of wonien in order to avoid the possibility of exposure of an unrecognized pregnancy during the most radiosensitive period at about 2.5 to 6 weeks.
- Research Organization:
- Columbia Univ., New York
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- NSA Number:
- NSA-13-015018
- OSTI ID:
- 4241795
- Journal Information:
- Journal of Pediatrics, Journal Name: Journal of Pediatrics Journal Issue: 5 Vol. 52; ISSN 0022-3476
- Country of Publication:
- Country unknown/Code not available
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Radiation dose to the embryo/fetus: Draft Regulatory Guide DG-8011
Radiation dose to the embryo/fetus: Draft Regulatory Guide DG-8011