Hematological Impact of Chronic Low -Doseradiation Exposure In Radiology Staff: A Comprehensive Dose-Biomarker Correlation Study
Abstract
Purpose
This study investigates the hematological consequences of chronic low-dose radiation exposure (0.1–20 mSv/year) among radiology professionals, assessing profession-specific vulnerabilities and identifying biomarkers for early biological impact below regulatory thresholds.
Methods
In a prospective cohort study, 250 radiology workers (interventional radiologists, radiographers, medical physicists, nurses, and technicians) and 50 matched controls underwent monthly thermoluminescent dosimetry (TLD-100) and quarterly hematological profiling (Sysmex XN-1000) over 18 months. Advanced parameters included neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), immature platelet fraction (IPF), and oxidative stress markers. Machine learning models integrated dose rates and hematological trends to predict biological responses.
Results
Significant dose-dependent cytopenias were observed, with lymphocyte (−23.8%, *p*=0.002) and platelet (−10.9%, *p*=0.015) reductions in workers exceeding 3 mSv/year, detectable even at 1.5 mSv—a newly identified threshold. Interventional radiologists exhibited 23% higher NLR (*p*=0.008) and elevated IPF (6.2% vs. 4.1%, *p*=0.021), indicating procedure-specific risk. Lymphocyte nadirs occurred 14–21 days post-exposure (*r*=−0.38, *p*=0.017), revealing cumulative damage patterns. Machine learning models predicted lymphocyte decline (AUC=0.81), outperforming conventional dosimetry.
Conclusion
Chronic low-dose radiation induces measurable hematological perturbations below regulatory limits, necessitating a paradigm shift toward biological surveillance. Key recommendations include: (1) integrating NLR/IPF screening into occupational monitoring, (2) establishing procedure-specific exposure thresholds, and (3) developing real-time biodosimetry systems. These findings advocate for precision radioprotection strategies that complement physical dosimetry with dynamic biomarker assessment.