The aim of this course is to make students acquainted with the basic principles of radiobiology and pathology. Furthermore the students will apply this knowledge to gain insight in the direct clinical effects of ionizing radiation, with special attention to the embryo and fetus, as well as late effects, known from radiation epidemiology. These topics will be discussed in the framework of radiation protection of the patient and risk assessment of radiation exposure. In this way the training course will be part of the training to medical radiation expert.

The initial radiation damage at the DNA level and the mechanisms involved in the processing/repair of DNA damage. Biological models for the evaluation of radiation damage: clonogenic survival curves, chromosomal damage, oncogenic transformation and molecular techniques to study gene expression. Parameters that influence the biological radiation response: protraction and fractionation of radiation dose, oxygen effect, effects of LET and RBE, radiosensitizers and radioprotectors. Overview of direct effects associated with total body irradiation and partial body irradiation of specific organs and tissues. Overview of epidemiological data with respect to radiation induced malignancies.Radiation effects at the level of the reproductive system, embryo and fetus.

Having successfully completed the courses Physics, General chemistry, Cytology and general histology, Cell biology and Human pathogenesis from the bachelor program biomedical sciences, or having acquired the relevant ending objectives by other means.

• to know the effects of radiation at the molecular and cellular level.
• to know the effects of radiation on normal tissues and tumours.
• to apply this knowledge to understand and interpret radiation therapy/diagnostics and risk analysis of patients and occupational/accidental exposed individuals.

- syllabus with figures and photos (in Dutch) - handouts of powerpoint presentations - scientific papers (english)
price: about 20 euro language: syllabus and handouts: dutch; papers: english

• Radiobiology for the radiologist ( E. Hall, Lippincott-Raven, most recent edition)

after making an appointment with the teacher

Classroom lectures; Clinical practice

Evaluation during examination period

During examination period: oral closed-book exam, written preparation. Second chance: oral closed-book exam, written preparation