Over time, such exposure may cause squamous cell skin cancer. Bone tumors may develop years after the ingestion of certain radioactive compounds, such as radium salts. Occasionally, severe injuries to organs exposed to radiation develop long after the completion of radiation therapy for cancer. Very rarely, these changes result in a malignant muscle tumor. Large accumulated doses of radiation to the spinal cord can cause catastrophic damage, leading to paralysis.
Radiation alters the genetic material in dividing cells.
In cells outside the reproductive system, these alterations may cause abnormalities of cell growth, such as cancer or cataracts. Because the facts aren't yet known, most authorities recommend that all medical and occupational radiation exposure be kept to a minimum. In any case, the chance of developing a radiation-related illness or genetic mutation is estimated at 1 in 100 for every 1 gray of exposure, and the average person receives only about 0.002 gray of radiation in a year. Diagnosis and Prognosis A radiation injury is suspected when a person becomes ill after receiving radiation therapy or being exposed to radiation in an accident. No specific tests are available to diagnose the condition, although many different tests may be used to detect swelling or organ malfunction.