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Keeping Blood Free from Harmful Pathogens with Blood Irradiator

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Saya Bonde
Keeping Blood Free from Harmful Pathogens with Blood Irradiator

Blood irradiation is a process in which blood or blood products are exposed to radiation. This process is commonly used in blood transfusions and blood banking to prevent transfusion-associated graft versus host disease (TA-GVHD). A blood irradiator is a device that uses ionizing radiation to irradiate blood products. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of blood irradiation and how blood irradiators work.

Importance of Blood Irradiation

TA-GVHD is a rare but severe complication of blood transfusion. It occurs when donor T-cells attack the recipient's tissues, resulting in a severe immune reaction. TA-GVHD can be fatal in up to 90% of cases. The risk of TA-GVHD is higher in certain populations, such as immunocompromised patients, neonates, and patients who receive blood products from close relatives. Blood irradiation is an effective method of preventing TA-GVHD.

Blood irradiation also has other applications in blood banking. It can be used to prevent transfusion-associated viral infections, such as hepatitis B and C, and to extend the shelf life of blood products. Moreover, blood irradiation can be used to treat certain blood disorders, such as graft rejection and certain leukemias.

How Blood Irradiators Work

Blood irradiators use ionizing radiation to irradiate blood products. The most commonly used radiation source is a cesium-137 source, which emits gamma radiation. The blood products are placed in a container, which is then placed in the irradiation chamber. The radiation source is positioned outside the chamber, and the radiation penetrates the container and irradiates the blood products.

The irradiation dose is measured in grays (Gy). The dose required for TA-GVHD prevention is typically 25 Gy. The irradiation process does not change the physical or chemical properties of the blood products and does not affect their functionality.

Safety Considerations

Blood irradiators must be operated with the utmost safety precautions. The radiation source is highly radioactive and can cause severe radiation sickness or death if mishandled. Blood irradiator operators must receive extensive training on radiation safety and must wear protective clothing and equipment. The irradiator must be housed in a specially designed room with thick walls and shielding materials to prevent radiation exposure to the environment and the operator.

Conclusion

Blood irradiation is a critical process in blood transfusions and blood banking. It is an effective method of preventing TA-GVHD and other transfusion-associated complications. Blood irradiators use ionizing radiation to irradiate blood products, and the process does not change the physical or chemical properties of the blood products. However, blood irradiation must be performed with the utmost safety precautions, and the operator must receive extensive training on radiation safety. With proper safety measures in place, blood irradiators can provide life-saving benefits in blood transfusions and blood banking.

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