The authors analyze four years’ experience with the treatment of paediatric patients with neuro- blastoma by 131 I-MIBG in combination with hyperbaric oxygen therapy from the viewpoint of radiation protection. Dose equivalents for family members taking care of children, drivers trans- porting patients and the staff maintaining the hyperbaric chamber were systematically evaluated. Contamination of chamber surfaces and masks after therapy as well as surfaces in ambulances were measured. Dose equivalent for family members did not exceed 5 mSv over the whole treatment period. Dose equivalent values at background level were found for drivers and the staff delivering oxygen therapy. No surface contamination was registered during 4 years. It is recommended to abandon regular monitoring of drivers and persons maintaining the chamber. Monitoring of family members is expedient due to a high probability of multiple therapy. Measurement of surface activities is needed as a contamination risk cannot be excluded. A nurse working with ionizing radiation would be able to deliver care to patients during transport as well as to handle possible decontamination.

        Key words: neuroblastoma - paediatric patients - 131I-MIBG - hyperbaric oxygen therapy - nuclear medicine - radiation protection