ALTERATIONS IN IODINE-131 DISTRIBUTION IN THE RAT AFTER WHOLE BODY X-IRRADIATION,
Abstract
The animal and human metabolism of the fallout isotope iodine-131 is known to be influenced by exposure to external ionizing radiation. Previous studies have been concerned with changes in radioiodine uptake by the thyroid and in plasma levels of radioactivity. An investigation of the organ distribution of I-131 in rats 24 hours after exposure to 900 r of X-irradiation was carried out in an attempt to further characterize these alterations. Twenty-four hours after exposure to 900 r whole body X-irradiation there is a reduction of 20% in the amount of I-131 lost into the urine and feces. Increased levels of radioiodine appear in the blood and most of the organs measured but particularly in the contents of the stomach and in the pelt. Possible mechanisms of these changes include the stimulation of endocrine organs other than the thyroid and alterations in intestinal motility and capillary permeability. Whole body X-irradiation may be expected to influence the organ distribution and perhaps the metabolism of other fallout isotopes. In this regard the investigation of cesium 137 and strontium 90 would be of particular importance. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 24, 1958
- Accession Number
- AD0806434
Entities
People
- David D. Ulmer
- James G. Kereiakes
- Lorenzo B. Perkins
Organizations
- United States Army Medical Research Laboratory