Internal dosimetry

Internal dosimetry is the science and practice of determining the absorbed dose of radiation to the body's tissues resulting from the ingestion, inhalation, or absorption through the skin of radioactive substances. It is a critical aspect of radiation protection and radiological health, particularly in the fields of nuclear medicine, radiopharmacy, and occupational health where individuals may be exposed to radioactive materials.

Overview

Internal dosimetry assesses the dose from radionuclides that have been incorporated into the human body, unlike external dosimetry, which evaluates radiation exposure from sources outside the body. The process involves the measurement of the quantity of radioactive material in the human body and the use of biokinetic models to determine the resulting radiation dose to various tissues and organs.

Principles

The fundamental principles of internal dosimetry involve understanding the behavior of radionuclides within the body. This includes their absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME). The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) provides models for these processes, which are essential for dose calculation. The dose is often reported in terms of effective dose, measured in sieverts (Sv), which accounts for the type of radiation and the sensitivity of different tissues to radiation.

Measurement Techniques

Several techniques are used in internal dosimetry to measure and monitor radionuclide intake and internal contamination, including:

• Bioassay: Analyzing biological samples, such as urine or feces, to detect and quantify radioactive material.
• In vivo counting: Direct measurement of radioactive material within the body using devices like whole-body counters.
• Indirect methods: Estimating internal contamination based on workplace air sampling and personal protective equipment contamination levels.

Applications

Internal dosimetry is applied in various settings, including:

• Nuclear medicine: To ensure the safety of patients undergoing diagnostic or therapeutic procedures involving radioactive pharmaceuticals.
• Radiation protection: To monitor and control the exposure of workers in nuclear facilities, research laboratories, and industries using radioactive materials.
• Environmental health: To assess the impact of released radioactive substances on populations and the environment.

Regulations and Guidelines

Regulatory bodies and international organizations, such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the ICRP, provide guidelines and standards for internal dosimetry to protect individuals and the public from harmful radiation exposure. Compliance with these regulations is mandatory for facilities handling radioactive materials.

Challenges

The main challenges in internal dosimetry include the complexity of biokinetic models, variability in individual physiology, and the difficulty in accurately measuring low levels of internal contamination. Ongoing research and development aim to improve the accuracy and reliability of dose assessments.

Conclusion

Internal dosimetry plays a vital role in ensuring the health and safety of individuals exposed to radioactive materials, whether in medical, occupational, or environmental settings. By accurately assessing internal doses, it helps in the effective management and control of radiation risks.