Clinical and pathogenetic features of radiation damage to the nervous system (lecture)

Abstract

In the modern world, due to the growing threat of the use of nuclear weapons, the problem of the influence of radiation on the human body and, in particular, the nervous system becomes relevant. Historically, the term “radiation” is used to refer to one of the many types of radiation — ionizing. Ionization is the process of separating an electron from an atom or molecule, disrupting its structure and producing free radicals that are highly reactive. The authors provide data on sources of ionizing radiation, characterize the types of radiation and the characteristics of their effects on the body. The factors influencing the features of pathogenesis and the variety of clinical symptoms (type and energy of ionizing radiation, dose intensity, degree of sensitivity of cells and tissues, etc.) are described. Particular attention in the lecture is paid to the issue of radiation damage to the nervous system: the causes and pathogenetic mechanisms of effects on nervous structures are listed, the types and characteristics of changes in the central nervous system that occur under the influence of radiation are described. The features of the effects of various doses of radiation, as well as structural and functional changes in various parts of the nervous system are indicated. It is emphasized that the symptoms and consequences of damage may vary depending on the form of irradiation and the structures of the nervous system that are more susceptible to changes. A detailed review of the literature data on the neurological manifestations of acute and chronic radiation sickness is provided. The stages of the process, degrees of severity, as well as typical neurological symptoms are described. Special attention is paid to the characteristics of mental pathology, deviant and addictive forms of behavior. In conclusion, methods for treating radiation damage to the nervous system at different stages of the pathological process, first aid and primary treatment measures are described, as well as inpatient measures, methods of specialized care and tactics during the recovery period. In general, understanding the mechanisms of the effects of radiation on nerve cells contributes to the development of effective measures to protect the nervous system from its negative effects.