Table 2.
Severity of hematotoxicity following radiation exposure according to blood counts.6
| Blood counts/symptoms | Degree 1 | Degree 2 | Degree 3 | Degree 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ALCa | More than or equal to 1.5 × 109/L | 1–1.5 × 109/L | 0.5–1 × 109/L | Less than 0.5 × 109/L |
| ANCb | More than or equal to 2.0 × 109/L | 1–2.0 × 109/L | 0.5–1 × 109/L | Less than 0.5 × 109/L |
| Platelet counts | More than or equal to 100 × 109/L | 50–100 × 109/L | 20–50 × 109/L | Less than 20 × 109/L |
| Hbc | Normal Hb | Less than 10% decrease in Hb | 10–20% decrease in Hb | More than 20% decrease in Hb |
| Infection | Localized and no requirement of antibiotics | Localized and requirement of only local antibiotics | Systemic and requirement of oral antibiotics only | Sepsis may set in and requirement of IVd antibiotics |
a
ALC absolute lymphocyte count.
b
ANC absolute neutrophil count.
c
Hb Hemoglobin.
d
IV Intravenous.
Note: Adapted from: Fliedner T.M., Friesecke I., Beyrer K., British Institute of Radiology, editors. Medical management of radiation accident—manual on the Acute Radiation Syndrome (METREPOL European Commission concerted action) British Institute of Radiology; Oxford: 2001. p. 1–66; compendium p. C1–C21. Table No. Nil, Haematopoietic system; P C4.