Which option correctly reflects the highest risk window for fetal radiation damage?

Which option correctly reflects the highest risk window for fetal radiation damage?

• A. A 22 weeks
• B. B 28 weeks
• C. C 6 weeks
• D. D 39 weeks

Answer: (C)

Fetal sensitivity to ionizing radiation varies with gestational age, and the highest risk occurs during organogenesis. This is when rapidly dividing cells are differentiating into the body’s organs, making them especially vulnerable to DNA damage from radiation. That organ-forming period occurs roughly in the first trimester, about 2 to 8 weeks after conception. Six weeks falls squarely in this window, so it represents the peak risk period for radiation-induced congenital anomalies or miscarriage compared with later stages of pregnancy. The later gestational ages listed (around 22, 28, or 39 weeks) are much less prone to cause these malformations, as organ development is largely complete and the fetus is more resilient to such effects.

Fetal sensitivity to ionizing radiation varies with gestational age, and the highest risk occurs during organogenesis. This is when rapidly dividing cells are differentiating into the body’s organs, making them especially vulnerable to DNA damage from radiation. That organ-forming period occurs roughly in the first trimester, about 2 to 8 weeks after conception. Six weeks falls squarely in this window, so it represents the peak risk period for radiation-induced congenital anomalies or miscarriage compared with later stages of pregnancy. The later gestational ages listed (around 22, 28, or 39 weeks) are much less prone to cause these malformations, as organ development is largely complete and the fetus is more resilient to such effects.