Irradiation of Blood Components

This examination of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) pays special attention to the similarities between GVHD in bone marrow transplant settings and transfusion-associated GVHD. The possible deleterious effects of blood irradiation are also discussed.

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This is an overview of graft-vs-host disease (GVHD), paying special attention to the similarities and differences between GVHD in the bone marrow transplant setting and transfusion-associated GVHD (TA-GVHD). Reports of TA-GVHD are reviewed to help define patient groups at risk for TA-GVHD. The amount of irradiation and the possible deleterious effect of blood irradiation are discussed. The process of blood component irradiation in a lab setting and the available types of blood irradiation equipment are also covered.