X-ray fluorescence and the in vivo evaluation of Fe, Cu and Zn in skin

We are seeking to extend the capabilities of an in vivo XRF system which was originally designed for the exclusive detection of Fe in skin. Our interest concerns development of a more versatile in vivo XRF diagnostic facility for measurement of Fe and Zn. Elevations of these two elements have been noted to occur in a number of skin disorders and ailments. The XRF system comprises a high-output tungsten anode X-ray tube, the collimated exit beam of which is made to impinge on an appropriate choice of filter. The present study makes use of a beam hardening filter in place of our previous use of a K-edge filter. Operating at 15 kVp, 23 mA, and using a Mo beam hardening filter of 0.2 mm thickness, we have obtained a quasi-monoenergetic output of approximately 13 keV and full-width at tenth maximum (FWTM) of 1.4 keV. Preliminary measurements on simulated skin indicate that we are able to detect Fe, Zn and Cu, at levels of the order of 20-, 10- and 5 mu g (g skin tissue)(-1), respectively, using monitoring periods of the order of 2000 seconds, and skin entrance doses of less than 16 mSv.