ICRP Publication 88: Doses to the Embryo and Fetus from Intakes of Radionuclides by the Mother

In its Publications 56, 67, 69, 71, and 72, ICRP provided age-specific biokinetic models and dose coefficients (dose per unit intake of radioactive substance) for members of the public. Committed effective doses for inhalation or ingestion of radionuclides by occupationally exposed workers were given in Publication 68. The complementary report addresses doses to the embryo/fetus after intakes by the mother before or during pregnancy. Selected radionuclides of 31 elements are considered. New biokinetic and dosimetric models for doses to the embryo/fetus are developed; they take account of transfer of radionuclides across the placenta, distribution and retention of radionuclides in fetal tissues, growth of the fetus, and photon irradiation from radionuclides in the placenta and maternal tissues. Human and animal data are used as available. Various intake scenarios are considered.