Changes of event-related potentials as markers of early brain damage following ionizing radiation. State of the art and future perspectives

Several and converging findings indicate that, besides the increased cancer risk, ionizing radiation (IR) exposure may favour the development of abnormal vascular and degenerative processes that may cooperate to induce central nervous system (CNS) damages. Indeed, the brain is one of the most sensitive organs to the detrimental effects of even low and intermediate IR doses. This represents a critical issue involving especially categories exposed to IR, such as workers of nuclear plants, or interventional medical and nurse staff. Therefore, it seems crucial to promptly recognize early signs of IR-induced brain abnormalities, in order to prevent and/or treat them appropriately The recording of event-related potentials (ERPs) is one of the most common neurophysiological methodologies to record and assess evoked brain activity. ERPs have been used for decades to assess perception, cognition, and emotions even in neuropsychiatric disorders, as well as in neuroscience and psychology. The aim of the present paper was to review the available literature data on the possible use of ERPs as possible marker of brain damage following IR exposure. Although further studies are needed, nevertheless the careful literature review seems to suggest the potentiality of ERPs recording as an easy and bloodless mean to detect early brain abnormalities following IR exposure.