The Role of the Transplant Program in a Nuclear Accident or Terrorism
Release of radioactivity, either intended or not, is an undeniable possibility and potentially catastrophic. Reports of nuclear proliferation in nations unfriendly to the United States and the Western world, and the poisoning of a Russian dissident with polonium-210 are further reminders of the terrorist threat. Healthcare needs for displaced populations can easily overwhelm the infrastructure in regions immediately surrounding a disaster area. People exposed to high levels of radiation usually >1-2 Gy over a short period of time may develop acute radiation syndrome. Administering myeloid cytokines to appropriately selected victims offers potential benefits after a mass casualty radiation incident. Consortiums such as the Radiation Injury Treatment Network are engaged in services such as developing treatment guidelines for managing hematologic toxicity among victims of radiation exposure. Similarly, the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) is establishing a network to offer training courses and improve cooperation between institutions.
