
They break molecular bonds, cause the formation of free radicals, cause mitotic inhibition, chromosomal segregation and genetic destruction. These mechanisms result in fetal radiation sickness. Dose and dose rate are very important in determining the biological damage. Exposure dose is expressed as RÖNTGEN (R). Rad is the amount of radiation absorbed. Rem is the human x-ray equivalent.
Any fetus is exposed to 60 mrad during its development in the womb. If the mother is additionally exposed to radiation, the amount that affects the fetus depends on the size of the fetus (gestational age) and the portion of the mother’s body exposed. The rate of dose exposure affects the biological response. Divided doses cause less damage to many tissues than a single dose of the same dose, but more damage to the gonads (e.g. male).
Which tissue is exposed to the radiation is also an important factor, as some tissues absorb more of the same dose. Taking all these factors into account, the dose to which the body is exposed can be accurately determined and the possible risks can be accurately estimated. The main reason why the embryo is at greater risk from radiation is that rapidly dividing cells are more affected. In animal experiments, irradiation at different weeks caused different malformations, while in humans, surprisingly, only microcephaly and mental retardation were observed. The most sensitive period has been reported to be between 8-15 weeks of gestation. Embryos exposed to 10-19 rad radiation between 0-8 weeks of gestation either have nothing or miscarriages occur after fatal cytogenetic defects. After the 15th gestational week, the defects are not severe.
At doses of 5 rad or less, no malformations are found in fetuses. The American Society of Radiology sets a threshold of 10 R and above. Radioactive isotopes can also cause damage to the target organs of the developing fetus. For example, radioactive iodine can completely damage the fetal thyroid if administered after the 6th week. When discussing radiation, questions about the safety of other types of imaging are often raised. Especially ultrasound. Although we know that ultrasound affects biological structures through hyperthermia, mechanical cavitation and direct mechanical stress, diagnostic ultrasound is not harmful to the fetus.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome, which starts at a younger age due to the cosmetic problems and infertility it causes and grows in size and shape with different problems added in married life, continues to exist as a complex disease that has started to concern many branches today with the disorders it causes in insulin metabolism.
The important symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome are as follows:
I. Menstrual irregularity: This is the most common symptom and is characterized by delayed or absent menstruation. These women have 8 or fewer periods per year. This indicates that ovulation occurs irregularly. As a result of irregular menstruation, irregular thickening of the uterine lining called endometrium occurs, which increases the risk of cancer.
II. Infertility: Women with P.O:S constitute almost half of the patients admitted to various centers for infertility. Insufficient growth of the egg and lack of ovulation prevent conception.
III. Increased Hair Growth (Hirsutism) : An increase in unwanted hair is an important symptom that causes psychological distress in almost every age group in women. Naturally existing light colored fine hairs tend to turn dark black and thicken due to imbalance in male hormones. Mostly mustache, beard, hair growth on the chest, thickening and proliferation of hair on the arms, legs and abdomen are detected. In the treatment, drug therapy should be used in combination with the prevention of new hair growth and the removal of hair that has grown by physical methods (such as laser hair removal). It is very important for the success of the treatment that patients are warned that medication will be effective only after 6 months.
IV. Hair Loss
V. Acne: It is an important cosmetic problem on the face, chest and back. Acne is a very typical symptom, especially in older ages.
VI. Weight gain: The majority of these patients have a serious struggle to lose or maintain their weight. Fat accumulation is more common in the waist and abdomen than in the hips. This is a natural consequence of the underlying impaired sugar and insulin metabolism. Reducing carbohydrate consumption in the diet program, regular exercise program and reviewing the patient’s lifestyle are absolutely necessary for the patient to lose weight.
VII. Skin-Skin Problems : Acanthosis nigrans is the blackening of the neck, groin and armpit areas, usually caused by an imbalance in insulin metabolism.
VIII. Depression-Anxiety: The psychological distress caused by hormonal disorders or cosmetic problems and infertility itself leads to sexual reluctance, guilt and hopelessness, which cause these patients to keep themselves away from society.
Polycystic ovary syndrome is diagnosed by detailed physical examination, ultrasonography and blood hormone analysis, and the patient’s cosmetic problems, expectations of having children and metabolic problems that may occur in later life are prevented. The main purpose of this article is to motivate patients or those who suspect the disease to perform a self-test in a question-and-answer format so that they can make their own diagnosis.
– 8 or fewer menstrual periods in a year
– Irregular menstruation for more than 10 days
– Intermediate bleeding
– Infertility
– Late-onset acne
– Excessive hair growth
– Hair loss
– Spotting in the neck, groin and armpit
– Overweight
– Sudden weight gain
– Feeling hungry between meals
– Diabetes
– Family history of diabetes
– Migraine
– Depression-anxiety
If you answer yes to 5 or more of these questions, you may have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. We encourage you to seek medical help as soon as possible.