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The effect of abdominal radiation on spleen function: A study in children with Wilms' tumor

Journal Article · · Pediatric Hematology and Oncology; (USA)
; ;  [1]
  1. Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario (Canada)

Reports of splenic dysfunction in patients with Hodgkin's disease who received radiation therapy to the spleen raise questions concerning impairment of splenic function and the long-term risk of bacterial sepsis in children who receive abdominal radiation for other diseases. Splenic function was studied in 20 children with Wilms' tumor using a quantitative assessment of vacuolated (pitted) red cells as a measure of reticuloendothelial function. Fourteen children had received abdominal radiation to a field involving the spleen at a median dose of 2000 rads. Their pitted red cells counts were no different from those of 6 children who received therapy without radiation to the spleen or to those of a group of normal children and adults. We conclude that there is no demonstrable long-term impairment of spleen function with radiation doses at or below 2200 rads.

OSTI ID:
6320607
Journal Information:
Pediatric Hematology and Oncology; (USA), Journal Name: Pediatric Hematology and Oncology; (USA) Vol. 3:1; ISSN PHONE; ISSN 0888-0018
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English