Explain acute radiation syndrome, its causes and treatment

Acute radiation syndrome is an acute condition triggered by exposure to high doses of ionizing radiation, usually in a short time. One of the saddest examples of the same is the survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings. Patients can recover from acute radiation syndrome, but that can take time, but those who don’t usually die within months.

Causes

Acute radiation syndrome is typically caused by accidental exposure to ionizing radiation. This can be related a radiotherapy accident, nuclear explosion, interplanetary travel, attach on nuclear industrial facility and exposure to radioactive waste. The dose of radiation absorbed is measured in a unit called GY. The signs of radiation sickness are usually visible when the entire body has absorbed at least 1 Gy. Exposure to doses higher than 10 Gy cannot be treated and results in death in just two weeks in some cases. Exposure dose and duration are two aspects that determine the condition and further treatment.

Treatment

In case of radiation sickness, preventing further radioactive contamination is usually the first approach. External radioactive particles are removed and treatment is started soon after for damaged bone marrow. The purpose is to increase the production of white blood cells. Blood transfusions are also required in cases of extensive damage. Damage to the internal organs can be reduced considerably with some treatments available, depending on the condition of the patient. Potassium iodide is known to be an effective drug if taken within 24 hours of exposure. Supportive treatments are usually required for bacterial infection, headache, fever and other symptoms such as diarrhoea.

Extreme cases of acute radiation syndrome are often not treatable, and therefore, seeking immediate assistance after exposure is important. Doctors may check absolute lymphocyte count to know more the absorbed radiation and damage. Check online to find notable incidents that resulted in absolute lymphocyte count among masses.

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