Partial Exposure

Partial Exposure – No Critical Organs Exposed

When we say that there was partial exposure of the body, but there was very little or no radiation dose to a critical organ, we are talking about exposure to a hand, knee, shoulder, foot, etc. Most often with very little or no critical organ exposure, there would be no reason for concern with biological effects. Sometimes, although rarely, the radiation dose received by the extremity (like an arm or hand) may be large enough to cause significant injury to that extremity if not properly treated.

Partial Exposure – Critical Organs Exposed

When we say that there was partial exposure of the body and it did expose a critical organ, we are talking about exposure to the pelvis, abdomen, chest, etc. – the main trunk of our body. With this type of exposure, there may be reason for concern about biological effects for the affected organs if the radiation dose is large.