Acute Effects of Gamma Radiation in Primates

Abstract

One hundred seven small primates were exposed in 16 groups to rapid delivery of Co/sup 60/ gamma -rays at doses of 400 to 40,000 r. Statistical evaluation of survival times, determination of the LD/sub 50(30)/ dose, clinical observations for a 30day postirradiation period, and immediate postmortem examinations were performed. These three approaches to the investigntion of the mechanism of radiation injury and death in the animal were evaluated. Each method separated ine groups of animals into three distinct and corresponding categories. The clinical and pathological stadies undertaken in this experiment provide further elucidation of the central nervous system, gastrointestinal, and hematopoietic types of radiation death. (auth)