Radiation Exposure and Medical Imaging

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to radiation exposure and medical imaging, ensuring comprehensive understanding for exam preparation.

Effective Dose

Best measure of overall risk of exposure to humans from ionizing radiation, expressed as Sievert (Sv).

Occupational Exposure

Exposure level for professionals who work with ionizing radiation, typically managed under regulations to minimize health risks.

ALARA Principle

An acronym for 'As Low As Reasonably Achievable,' aimed at minimizing radiation exposure.

Annual Effective Dose Limit

The recommended annual exposure limit for occupational workers set at 50 mSv.

Dose-Response Relationship

The principle that the benefits of an examination must outweigh the potential risks from radiation exposure.

Biologic Effects of Radiation

Effects of radiation on living organisms, including cellular damage and potential for cancer.

Cell Nucleus

The part of a cell that contains genetic material.

Somatic Cells

Body cells that undergo mitosis for growth and repair.

Germ Cells

Reproductive cells that undergo meiosis and contribute to the next generation.

Direct Hit Radiation Damage

Genetic damage that occurs when an x-ray photon directly hits DNA.

Indirect Hit Radiation Damage

Damage caused by the interaction of radiation with water molecules, resulting in free radicals.

The Law of Bergonie and Tribondeau

A principle stating that the radiosensitivity of cells is directly related to their reproductive activity and inversely related to their degree of differentiation.

Acute Radiation Syndrome

A serious illness resulting from the exposure of the entire body to a large dose of ionizing radiation in a short period.

Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) Dosimeter

A device used to measure ionizing radiation exposure, commonly used in occupational settings.

Protective Shielding

Use of lead aprons, gloves, and barriers to reduce radiation exposure to patients and workers.

Digital Tomosynthesis

An imaging technique that creates a 3D representation of the internal tissues of a patient.

Mammography

A type of imaging specifically designed for breast tissue, commonly used for cancer detection.

Dexa Scan

A low dose x-ray procedure used to assess bone mineral density.

Interventional Radiology

A branch of radiology that utilizes imaging guidance to perform minimally invasive surgical procedures.

Radiation Oncology

A medical specialty that uses high-energy radiation for therapeutic purposes, such as treating cancer.

Radionuclide Imaging

An imaging technique that uses gamma radiation to assess tissue perfusion.