Prophylaxis Against Radiation Exposure from Radioiodine

Abstract

The major cause of accidental exposure to radioactive iodine that would endanger a sizable population is its release from the core of a functioning nuclear power-generating facility. Because the half-lives of the iodine radionuclides of interest are 8 d or less, an accident at a reactor that has been inactive for a relatively brief period would not create a risk. For similar reasons, it is unlikely that a terrorist act involving a “dirty bomb,” or reactor waste products, would require prophylactic measures to protect the thyroid gland. This discussion applies primarily to large populations exposed to volatile radioiodines, rather than individuals who might be exposed in the setting of a scientific laboratory.