The Irradiation of Blood and Blood Components in Siriraj Hospital

Abstract

Abstract : Iradiation of cellular blood component is the only accepted methodology to prevent TA-GVHD in patient whose immune system is unable to reject donor T- lymphocyte which will proliferate and attack the patient's tissue. Fever, rash, liver dysfunction, diarrhea and pancytopenia are seen. In severe cases, TA-GVHD could be fatal. Blood irradiator uses Cesium 137 as the source of gamma rays to inactivate T- lymphocyte by the usual dosage range of 1,500-2,500 cGy. The effects of irradiation on platelet viability is not clinically significant but red cells were damaged upon storage and potassium levels were increased after irradiation. Thus, FDA of USA has recommended to transfuse irradiated red cells within 28 days from the time of irradiation. The aim of this study
is to provide the information on the use of irradiated blood and some guidance in determining when to use irradiated blood to recipients at risk of TA -GVHD. In this study retrospective review of the preparation and use of irradiated blood and blood products was done from year 2001-2003 at blood bank, Siriraj Hospital. We found that the highest number of patients who requested irradiated blood between 2001-2003 was BMT patients (105 cases, 38.18%) and requested the total irradiated blood
component was 1,588 units (68.12%).