Biological effects of radiation exposure

DOE-HDBK-1130-98

Module 2 Biological Effects

Instructor's Notes

3. Biological effects of radiation exposure

Somatic effects refer to the effects radiation has on the

individual receiving the dose.

EO7 Define the term

Genetic effects refer to mutations due to radiation

"heritable effect."

damage to the DNA of a cell. When this change is in the

DNA of parental reproductive cells, it is called a

heritable effect.

a. Somatic Effects

Somatic effects can best be described in terms of prompt

and delayed effects as discussed below.

3) Prompt Effects

Although rare in the nuclear industry, large doses are

typically acute radiation doses representing serious

overexposures. The biological effects of large acute

doses are as follows:

Table 2-1

Prompt Biological Effects

Dose (rem)

Effect

0-25

None detectable through

symptoms or routine blood

tests.

25-100

Changes in blood.

100-300

Nausea, anorexia.

300-600

Diarrhea, hemorrhage, and

Effects are dependent on

medical intervention and the

possible death

individual.