Figure 6.10. Localized Radiation Effects

Text Description:

Organ System Threshold Effects:

• Skin—No visible injuries: <100 rem
  • Main erythema, epilation: >5000 rem
  • Most desquamation: >1,800 rem
  • Ulceration/Necrosis: >2,400 rem
• Cataracts
  • Acute Exposure: >200 rem
  • Chronic Exposure: >600 rem
• Permanent Sterility
  • Female: >250 rem
  • Male: >350 rem

Source: Health Physics Society. From "Emergency Department Management of Radiation Casualties," a presentation for hospital staff trainees. Available for download at http://hps.org/hsc/documents/emergency.ppt.

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