Biological dosimetry by the triage dicentric chromosome assay: potential implications for treatment of acute radiation syndrome in radiological mass casualties.

Biological dosimetry is an essential tool for estimating radiation dose. The dicentric chromosome assay (DCA) is currently the tool of choice. Because the assay is labor-intensive and time-consuming, strategies are needed to increase throughput for use in radiation mass casualty incidents.

Wound trauma increases radiation-induced mortality by activation of iNOS pathway and elevation of cytokine concentrations and bacterial infection.

Abstract Although it is documented that concurrent wounding increases mortality from radiation injury, the molecular mechanism of combined injury is unknown. In this study, mice were exposed to gamma radiation followed by skin wounding. Wound trauma exacerbated radiation-induced mortality, reducing the LD(50/30) from 9.

Synopsis of partial-body radiation diagnostic biomarkers and medical management of radiation injury workshop.

Radiation exposures from accidents, nuclear detonations or terrorist incidents are unlikely to be homogeneous; however, current biodosimetric approaches are developed and validated primarily in whole-body irradiation models. A workshop was held at the Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute in May 2008 to draw attention to the need for partial-body biodosimetry, to discuss current knowledge, and to identify the gaps to be filled. A panel of international experts and the workshop attendees discussed the requirements and concepts for a path forward.

Triage dose assessment for partial-body exposure: dicentric analysis.

Partial-body biodosimetry is likely to be required after a radiological or nuclear exposure. Clinical signs and symptoms, distribution of dicentrics in circulating blood cells, organ-specific biomarkers, and physical signals in teeth and fingernails all can provide indications of non-homogeneous exposures. Organ specific biomarkers may provide early warning regarding physiological systems at risk after radiation injury.

COX-2 inhibitors are contraindicated for treatment of combined injury.

Casualties of radiation dispersal devices, nuclear detonation or major ionizing radiation accidents, in addition to radiation exposure, may sustain physical and/or thermal trauma. Radiation exposure plus additional tissue trauma is known as combined injury. There are no definitive therapeutic agents.