Interaction of Ionizing Radiation and E. Coli Endotoxin. I. Effect of Radiation on Endotoxin Shock

摘要

The possible interaction of E. coli endotoxin and total body irradiation has been studied in 38 adult mongrel dogs. Results indicate that prior irradiation (1000 r) abolishes the endotoxin shock syndrome, and the dogs die of radiation sickness on an average of 62 hr after exposure. Unirradiated dogs given E. coli endotoxin die on an average of 5 hr after injection of the toxin. It is postulated that irradiation interferes with, or actually prevents, the 'trigger mechanism' of endotoxin shock. This interaction may involve the immune mechanism, complement, liberation of histamine, or all of these things. (Author)