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24 May 2012

Answer to Question #4818 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Radiation Effects — Medical and Dental Radiation

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

In 1957, as an infant, five radium seeds were implanted into a birthmark on my shoulder to shrink it. It was not until about three years ago that I learned that the seeds had not been removed and I have since had them removed. They had been in my body for about 45 years. My doctors said they vaguely remember hearing that radiation was used in this fashion in the 50s but they don't know if there are long-term side effects that I need to be aware of. I do know that I was radioactive when the seeds were still in my shoulder and that a person had to be in the operating room who could dispose of such material. Any guidance would be appreciated.

If there is any effect from the radium seeds in your shoulder, you would almost certainly know about it by now. The most likely effect is scarring. The results would more than likely not be serious. The scarring may or may not be visible on your skin. The exact nature would depend on the precise location of the seeds in your shoulder. Any other effects would be extremely rare.

S. Julian Gibbs, DDS, PhD

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