Effects of Acute Whole-Body X-Irradiation on Salt and Water Metabolism and Their Clinical Significance

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Abstract
Recent discussions of the treatment of the acute radiation syndrome have emphasized the importance of parenteral fluids for nutrition and for correcting changes in electrolytes and acid-base balance (1, 2). In an effort to gain information on which such therapy might be based, we have compared the distribution and excretion of sodium, potassium, and chloride in rats subjected to acute whole-body irradiation at an LD 50 level and in pair-fed controls. Through the use of pair-fed controls we hoped to demonstrate changes other than those caused by decreased food intake. In addition, we have followed electrolyte concentrations in a radiosensitive, a radioresponsive, and a radioresistant tissue. Experimental Procedures Sprague-Dawley male rats, approximately 130 days old and 300 gm. in weight, were held in individual metabolism devices which immobilize the animal and permit accurate separation of urine and feces (Fig. 1). After a control period of four days, the experimental animals were given 660 r acute whol...