tolerance dose
Maximum radiation dose that normal tissues can receive with an acceptable risk of complications.
Full Definition
Tolerance dose represents the threshold radiation dose above which the probability of normal tissue complications increases to clinically unacceptable levels. These dose limits are established through clinical experience, published literature, and institutional protocols, typically defined as the dose associated with a 5% risk of complications at 5 years (TD 5/5). Tolerance doses vary significantly between organs and depend on factors such as volume irradiated, fractionation schedule, patient age, and concurrent treatments. Common examples include spinal cord tolerance of 45-50 Gy and optic nerve tolerance of 50-54 Gy.
Usage
Usage note: Specify probability level and time endpoint when stating tolerance doses.
In Context
- "The treatment plan ensured that all critical structures remained below tolerance dose." — Plan evaluation summary
- "Spinal cord tolerance dose was the limiting factor in dose escalation." — Dose escalation study