Section 7 Radiation Effects on the Developing Embryo and Fetus

2. A 2-Gy exposure to a developing embryo when radiation is administered during weeks__________. (Select all that apply.)
A. 8–15 of gestation is likely to induce abortions.
B. 0–2 of gestation usually produces congenital abnormalities.
C. 15–25 can produce mental retardation.
D. 2–6 is likely to induce congenital abnormalities.

3. For each circumstance (1–3), match  the stage of pregnancy (A–C) when radiation would  be the most likely cause.
1. Congenital malformations (other than in the central nervous system)
2. Death
3. Increased risk of cancer

A. Pre-implantation
B. Organogenesis
C. Fetal period

4. A woman involved in a traffic accident complained of lower back pain and underwent anteroposterior and lateral lumbosacral spine radiography. She was subsequently found to be 10 weeks pregnant. Which of the following statements accurately describe this circumstance? (Select all that apply.)
A. The radiographs should not have been obtained.
B. A therapeutic abortion should be recommended.
C. If a radiation-induced defect occurs, it will most likely affect the central nervous system.
D. The offspring may be at increased risk for a childhood malignancy.
E. The fetus probably received an absorbed dose of 0.1–0.15 Gy.

5. True/False: A woman receives a dose of 50 mGy to the abdomen and pelvis and then learns she is 18 weeks pregnant. Which of the following describe the resultant radiation risk? (Select all that apply.)
A. An increased risk of intrauterine death
B. An increased risk of neonatal death
C. A risk of microcephaly in the infant
D. A risk of leukemia in the child