Survey of iodine metabolism in man illustrated by an iodide load investigation

The first part of this report deals with the human metabolism of iodine, its sources, serum iodine, uptake in the thyroid, hormonal thyroid secretion and iodine excretion. The thyroid hormones are discussed as is the regulating of the iodine metabolism. The second part consists of a study performed on six healthy persons over two days. These were given 5mg iodine in aqueous solution rally and series of blood tests taken. Two persons were also given 100mg and 200mg respectively per day for 3weeks. The results are tabulated and discussed. In the third and final section the radiation hygiene aspects are treated. The basis is the uptake of large amounts of I - 131 from radioactive fallout. Carcinogenesis and hypothyroidism following this are discussed and therapy and iodine prophylaxis are described. (JIW)