Optimization of in vivo X-ray fluorescence analysis methods for bone lead by simulation with the Monte Carlo code CEARXRF

Preliminary studies on combining the K and L XRF methods for in vivo bone lead measurement

Lead is a toxic material that invokes irreversible neurological problems. Once ingested, lead accumulates in the bones. To study detailed lead poisoning effects it is essential to have an in vivo bone lead measurement tool with a small minimum detectable concentration (MDC). Both K- and L-based XRF methods for the tibia bone have been suggested and developed in the past and are presently in use. In this work a combined K and L XRF method for the tibia bone is proposed. The proposed system consists of a 109Cd point source and Ge and Si(Li) detectors for optimum detection of the K and L X-rays, respectively. Experimental and Monte Carlo simulated results are given here for a prototype combined K and L XRF system. This system promises to yield a better MDC and the possibility of obtaining information on the near-surface bone lead content as well as the average lead content throughout the bone.