Radiodermatitis from Occupational Exposure to 192Ir

Kim, Kea Jeung; Yoo, Jae Hak

Abstract

Portable gamma radiography for nondestructive testing with 192Ir is commonly used in various industrial fields to defect possible internal defects of metals in pipelines, tanks, bridges, ships and so forth in Korea. Compared to the numerous researches about biologic effects and potential risks of radiation, only a Jew papers were reported about radiodermatitis from occupational exposure to 192Ir. In this study, we investigated six patients with occupational radiodermatitis with developed during portable gamma radiography for nondestructive testing with 192Ir. All six patients had developed radiodermatitis on their hands and fingers. They noticed painful swelling, erythema, and bullae on their fingers or palms 1 to 2weeks after exposure. Three patients suffered from chronic fibrosis and recurrent ulcerations. We also discussed about the working situation of our patients and reviewed the literatures about the radiodermatitis from occupational exposure to 192Ir. In conclusion, we think ionizing radiation, though it is a useful tool in industry, must be carried out in accordance with radiation protection rules and regulations.