What are the effects of X-ray (X-radiation) radiation exposure?

From the Guidelines

X-ray radiation exposure should be minimized whenever possible, following the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable). This approach is crucial in reducing the risks associated with radiation exposure, including deterministic effects such as erythema, desquamation, cataracts, and stochastic effects like cancer and genetic risk 1. The biological effects of radiation depend on the amount of energy absorbed by the cells and where in the cell the energy is absorbed, highlighting the importance of limiting exposure.

Key Considerations

• For medical personnel working in cardiac laboratories, the major concerns about radiation exposure include the potential risk of cancer, cataracts, genetic birth defects in offspring, and damage to the fetus of a pregnant physician or staff member if appropriate protective measures are not practiced 1.
• Healthcare workers should maintain distance from the radiation source, use appropriate shielding (lead aprons, thyroid shields, and leaded glasses), and limit exposure time to minimize radiation exposure.
• Pregnant women should avoid unnecessary X-rays, especially during the first trimester, though modern diagnostic X-rays rarely deliver enough radiation to harm a developing fetus when proper shielding is used.
• Children are more sensitive to radiation effects and require special consideration with adjusted, lower doses.

Radiation Effects

The biological effects of radiation occur because X-rays can damage DNA, potentially leading to cell death or mutations, with higher doses increasing cancer risk 1. However, the benefits of medically necessary X-rays typically outweigh the small increased risk of cancer. It is essential to weigh the benefits of X-ray radiation against the potential risks and to follow guidelines that minimize exposure while ensuring diagnostic accuracy.

Protective Measures

• Recognition of biological effects and risks from radiation exposure has ultimately resulted in the development of recommendations for limits of exposure and dose 1.
• The use of appropriate protective measures, such as lead aprons and thyroid shields, can significantly reduce radiation exposure for healthcare workers.
• Limiting exposure time and maintaining distance from the radiation source are also critical in minimizing radiation exposure.

From the Research

X Ray Radiation Exposure

• X ray radiation exposure is not directly addressed in the provided studies, which focus on radioactive iodine exposure and the use of potassium iodide as a thyroid blocking agent in nuclear emergencies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
• However, the studies suggest that exposure to radioactive iodine, which can be released during a nuclear accident, can have harmful biological effects, particularly for the thyroid gland 3, 5.
• The thyroid gland is the most exposed organ to radioactive iodine, and children and adolescents are at the highest risk of developing thyroid cancer after exposure 3, 4.
• Potassium iodide can effectively block radioactive iodine from being absorbed by the thyroid gland if taken immediately after a radiation release, and its use is recommended in nuclear emergencies 2, 4, 5, 6.

Protection from Radioactive Iodine

• The use of potassium iodide tablets can significantly reduce radiation exposure to the thyroid gland by preventing the entry of radioactive iodine into the thyroid 3, 5.
• The protective effect of potassium iodide is most effective when administered within a narrow time window, typically a few hours before and after exposure 3, 5.
• The American Thyroid Association has issued a position statement on the use of potassium iodide ingestion in a nuclear emergency, which provides guidance on its use and distribution 6.

Vulnerable Populations

• Certain populations are especially vulnerable to the effects of radioactive iodine exposure, including pregnant and breastfeeding women, children, and neonates 4.
• Individuals living in iodine-deficient areas are also at higher risk of developing thyroid cancer after exposure to radioactive iodine 3, 5.
• Ensuring an adequate iodine supply is crucial for lowering the risk of harmful effects from exposure to radioactive iodine at the population level 3.