Figure 6.5. Pattern of a Series of Blood Counts Graphed Over Time After 3 Gy of Whole-Body Exposure

Note: Typical changes in the peripheral blood profile will occur as early as 24 hours after irradiation, with lymphocytes falling immediately on day 1. At about 4 weeks, cell lines bottom out. Without white cells, overwhelming infection occurs, and without platelets, hemorrhage is expected.

Source: Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute.

Return to Document