Radiobiology > Deterministic Effects > Whole Body Irradiation Syndromes > Gastrointestinal Syndrome

Whole Body Irradiation: The Gastrointestinal Syndrome

The GI Syndrome

• Associated with exposures of at least  7 to10 Gy (700 to1000 rad)
• Mechanism: loss of stem cells from intestinal crypts, leading to eventual loss of GI mucosa
• Si/Sx: Diarrhea and vomiting leading to profound dehydration
• Has a latency period 3-5 days
• Rx: Fluid resuscitation (ultimately futile)
• Survival: None. Death in 1-2 weeks post-exposure