Medical
RADIATION FROM URANIUM (U)

Agent Information: 	Uranium radioisotopes are a class of highly toxic and unstable chemicals 
			whose radioactivity is measured by the number of atoms disintegrating 
			per unit time. Uranium radioisotopes emit radiation primarily in the form 
			of high-energy alpha particles and medium-energy x-rays. This ionizing 
			radiation disrupts molecules in cells and deposits energy in tissues, 
			causing damage. A naturally occurring radioisotope, uranium is enriched 
			to fuel nuclear power reactors and for use in some nuclear weapons.

Signs and Symptoms: 	Exposure to ionizing radiation from uranium causes immediate or 
			delayed health effects. Observable effects occurring soon after receiving 
			very large doses include hair loss, skin burns, nausea, gastrointestinal 
			distress or death (Acute Radiation Syndrome). Long-term risks, including 
			increased cancer risk, are a function of the specific radioisotopes 
			involved; and the route, magnitude and duration of exposure.  

Route of Exposure: 	Inhalation and ingestion are the most likely routes for internal 
			contamination from uranium radioisotopes. External exposure stops 
			when the person leaves the impacted area and is decontaminated (to 
			remove dust or residue from clothing, skin and hair). Internal exposure 
			continues until the radioactive material is flushed from the body by 
			natural processes, or decays. When a person inhales or ingests a 
			radionuclide, it is distributed to different organs, remaining there for days, 
			months, or years until it decays or is excreted. Once internalized, 
			uranium radioisotopes can most significantly affect bone and the kidneys, 
			as target organs.

Protective Measures: 	Emergency medical care to save lives is the first priority. Effective patient 
			decontamination is important to limit the spread of radioactive materials 
			in the hospital, and prevent exposure to other patients and staff. Dose 
			reduction can be achieved by limiting the time people are exposed, 
			avoiding direct contact, maintaining distance from the source, and using 
			shielding or respiratory protection. Deceased victims from a radiological 
			event involving release of airborne uranium radioisotopes could be 
			contaminated both internally and externally, and should be handled using 
			reverse isolation.

Lab Samples Requested		
for Evaluation:		CBC with absolute lymphocyte count. Repeat measurements for at least 48 hours. 

Prophylaxis:		Appropriate PPE to avoid secondary decontamination.

Treatment:		Supportive care and decontamination. Treatment is indicated for known 
			uptake of uranium radioisotopes, by administering sodium bicarbonate in 
			saline, or oral tablets until urine reaches a pH of 8-9, to reduce the risk of
			acute renal tubular necrosis. Expert guidance on medical treatment is 
			available from REAC/TS at: 1-865-576-1005 (24/7 coverage).
	
Reporting:		Immediately report suspect cases to Delaware’s Division of Public 
			Health, Epidemiology Branch: 1-888-295-5156 (24/7 coverage).

Contact Information:	Division of Public Health 1-888-295-5156. For more information on forms 
			of acute radiation syndrome, go to:
			http://www.bt.cdc.gov/radiation/arsphysicianfactsheet.asp. 
 
 
 
24/7 Emergency Contact Number:  1-888-295-5156
Revised: 5/2008  Doc. No. 35-05-20/08/05/39