Dose Assessment Based on Peripheral Blood Cell Counts - Evaluation of a Portable Blood Counter

Authors

W. F. Blakely, M. B. Grace, J. M. Muderhwa, P. G. S. Prasanna, V. L. Miner, W. E. Jackson, I. H. Levine, C. A. Salter

Abstract

The measurement of blood lymphocyte depletion kinetics and other radiation bioassays can enable physicians to triage radiation victims, make appropriate treatment decisions, and reduce uncertainties associated with the variability of individual responses to radiation exposure. Current data on human blood lymphocyte depletion kinetics following accidental exposure to ionizing radiation are based on Russian and United States (Radiation Emergency Assistance Center/Training Site) accident registries. Our objectives were (1) to evaluate a commercial, off -the-shelf, small-footprint blood cell counter and (2) to facilitate the conversion of blood counts to dose estimates, using the Biodosimetry Assessment Tool radiation casualty management software application available at http://www.afrri.usuhs.mil, all to support the assessment of ionizing radiation exposures. A commercial counter (Careside's Hematil-2000) exhibited acceptable reproducibility, accuracy, and dynamic range for this purpose. The results are directly applicable to medical responses to radiological incidents, including mass casualty scenarios.

Meeting

This abstract was presented at the 36th Annual Midyear Meeting, "Radiation Safety Aspects of Homeland Security and Emergency Response", Biophysical and Biological Techniques for Retrospective Radiation Dosimetry Session, 1/26/2003 - 1/29/2003, held in San Antonio, TX.

 
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