Biodosimetry techniques and the biological indicators of radiation exposure in humans

Biodosimetry analysis helps in ascertaining the exposure and quantifies the radiation dose using biological indicators of radiation. It plays a crucial role in medical management of exposed individuals, helps to address triage needs in case of small as well as large scale radiological incidents and is also indispensable part of regulatory investigation of excess exposure. Biodosimetry is the only method available for estimation of dose, when either physical dosimeters become unreliable or not available as in most radiological incidents. Many complex exposure scenarios offer challenges for the dose assessment. No single assay can address all the challenges. Biodosimetry lab of HS and EG, BARC, has established state of art facilities for addressing these challenges and developed many indigenous facilities for achieving required throughput. Many innovative methods are developed to address the various logistics of processing, preparation of slides, scoring and reporting of dose estimates. (author)