Radiation and Radiological Disasters.  “Ionizing Radiation. The extent of tissue damage resulting from exposure to ionizing radiation depends on the type of radiation and the dose of exposure experienced. (1) Localized or focal tissue damage. One type of localized injury “beta burns” results when skin is exposed to beta emissions, either an intense source or for a long period. Another type of localized or focal tissue damage may be a result of an internal dose as a result of inhalation or ingestion of a radioactive particle. For example, if the common fission product iodine-131 is inhaled or ingested, it will likely concentrate in the thyroid gland and may cause tissue damage. (2) Acute radiation syndrome (ARS) occurs from whole-body exposure to radiation, not just specific areas of the body... the higher the radiation dose and dose rate, the earlier the symptoms will appear and more danger to exposed personnel. Individuals with a combination of injuries, blast and/or thermal combined with radiation exposure, will be more vulnerable to ARS. (For additional information, See: Military Medical Operations Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, http: //www.afrri.usuhs.mil.) (JCS/DOD, CBRNE CM, 2006, p. I-9)