Effect of depth on radiation-induced cell damage in a water phantom

Summary Aim The paper describes the effect of medium depth on radiation-induced genetic damage to SK-mel cultured cells placed inside a water phantom as measured by the number of cells with micronuclei formed and apoptoses seen in these cells. Materials/Methods The energy of photon radiation used was 6 MV; cells placed at various depths were irradiated with the same dose (5 Gy). Results/Conclusions Depending on medium depth, differences were noted in the number of damaged cells: ca.30% more affected cells were seen at a depth of 25 cm as compared to a depth of 5 cm. With increasing depth also the radiation energy spectrum changes. This is probably responsible for the observed effect. It should be taken into consideration in both clinical practice and in treatment planning.