Treatment by Transfusion of Severe General Radiation Injury in Dogs

Abstract

The effects of transfusion of fresh whole blood were observed in 55 dogs exposed to 1,250 ± 100 r of continuous total body gamma radiation. Seven controls received the same basic care, fluids and antibiotics, but no transfusions. The amount of blood administered ranged from 100–150 ml in daily infusions through exchanges of seven liters or more repeated once or twice. Transfusion increased survival time but hazards were apparent. The anesthesia and surgical procedures required for the larger exchanges of blood led to complicating infections. Large amounts of fresh unirradiated blood induced early return of hematopoiesis apparently by implantation of cells present in the blood administered, but jaundice and serious liver injury also occurred, perhaps as a reaction of foreiga cells against their host. Best results were obtained by frequent non‐traumatic administration of small amounts of blood, roughly equivalent to one‐tenth the dog's blood volume daily. There were two long term survivors. One received irradiated blood and the other received blood from a litter‐mate.When histocompatibility is adequate, fresh blood can be used without irradiation and will hasten marrow recovery. When the histocompatibility of donor and recipient is unknown, frequent nontraumatic administration of irradiated fresh blood is helpful and free from injurious effects.