A model that leads to the Weibull distribution function to characterize early radiation response probabilities.

Abstract

The probability of inducing a specific early radiation syndrome is characterized by using a model in which injury to a critical cluster of cells, from a large number of critical cell clusters at risk, is responsible for causing the syndrome. This model leads to a two parameter Weibull cumulative distribution function that represents the probability that a given radiation syndrome will be induced by an absorbed radiation dose to the critical cells at risk less than or equal to a given value. Results from an analysis of dose-response data after exposure to internal radiation sources suggest that the probability of inducing a given radiation syndrome depends on the absorbed radiation dose, dose rate and radiation quality. In the design of experiments to study late occurring effects of radiation (e.g. tumor induction), it is important to minimize the risk of acute deaths. For this reason, results presented in this manuscript can be used to design better late effects studies. The results can also be used in reactor hazard analysis.