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Plutonium and uranium in Japanese human tissues.
Y Igarashi1, A Yamakawa, N Ikeda
1Department of Chemistry, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki-Pref., Japan.
Radioisotopes
|September 1, 1987
Summary
This study analyzed plutonium and uranium in Tokyo residents, finding plutonium concentrated in specific organs and uranium widely distributed. Differences in distribution are linked to their chemical states in body fluids.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Radiochemistry
- Human Health
Background:
- Human exposure to environmental contaminants like plutonium and uranium is a public health concern.
- Understanding the distribution of these elements in the body is crucial for risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the distribution patterns of plutonium and uranium in human tissues from Tokyo residents.
- To investigate the relationship between the elements' chemical states and their tissue distribution.
Main Methods:
- Plutonium was quantified using alpha-spectrometry.
- Uranium levels were measured using the fission track method.
- Tissue samples were obtained from residents of the Tokyo metropolitan area.
Main Results:
- Plutonium exhibited a concentrated distribution in specific organs.
- Uranium was found to be more generally distributed throughout the entire body.
- Mean concentrations were calculated to estimate distribution patterns.
Conclusions:
- The distinct distribution patterns of plutonium and uranium are attributed to their differing chemical states in biological fluids.
- Plutonium likely exists as Pu4+, while uranium is present as UO2(2+).
- These findings provide insights into the toxicokinetics of heavy metals in humans.