Radiation as a nervous system toxin.
Neurotoxicity from radiation can range widely and produce effects that may include (1) small absolute increases in cancer risks, (2) subtle effects on higher level functioning in some individuals, (3) severe cognitive impairment in some individuals, (4) severe focal injury tat may include necrosis or irreversible loss of function, and (5) overwhelming and rapidly fatal diffuse injury associated with high-dose, whole-body exposures. An understanding of the implications of nervous system exposure to radiation can guide efforts in radiation protection and aid in the optimization of the medical uses of radiation.
Pimperl
L Cameron
LC
Department of Radiation Oncology, Wilford Hall Medical Center, Lackland Air Force Base, Suite 1/MMCN, 2200 Bergquist Drive, TX 78236, USA. loyd.pimperl@lackland.af.mil
D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D009420:Nervous System / Q000528:radiation effects*; D009422:Nervous System Diseases / Q000209:etiology*; D011830:Radiation Effects