Who is at greater risk for radiation injury to the eyes from high dose procedures?

Patients with small or very large body masses are at greater risk for radiation injury to the eyes from high dose procedures due to the way body mass affects radiation dose distribution. When an individual has a significantly different body size or composition, it can influence how radiation interacts with their tissues. For example, patients with smaller body masses may be more susceptible because their anatomical structures are closer together and may not provide as much protection to sensitive organs such as the eyes. Conversely, patients with very large body masses may have more tissue absorbing the radiation, which can increase the overall dose to specific areas, including the eyes, especially if the procedure involves higher radiation exposure.

In this context, the extent of exposure and the anatomical positioning during high dose procedures are critical factors that can contribute to the risk of radiation injury. Other populations, such as adults over 40, may have a different risk profile due to age-related changes rather than direct radiation exposure risks, while prior eye surgery or routine dental X-rays generally involve much lower radiation doses, thus posing less risk of significant injury during typical procedures.