Lightning response to large-scale radiation
A number of biodosimetric tools exist to assess the dose a person has received. They vary in sensitivity, specificity, stability of signal and speed of performance. The EU-funded project 'Multi-disciplinary biodosimetric tools to manage high scale radiological casualties' (MULTIBIODOSE) tested and adapted these tools for the worst-case, large-scale scenario. The toolkit has five complementary assays. Training was provided to laboratory personnel and the assays were tested on irradiated blood samples and mobile phones. Three triage categories were assigned according to identified dosage level. A statistical tool available on the project website was developed to collate results and provide standard errors and other measures for dose determination. Team members found that using dose estimates alone without considering the standard errors and upper confidence limits was without exception the most successful categorisation method. This is particularly important as it demonstrates the accuracy of the dose estimates obtained with the assays in providing a realistic picture of actual exposure dose. A guidance document for radiation emergency responders is freely available for download from the website. The document also highlights the limitations of the triage tools and the capacity of the participating laboratories to carry out biodosimetric triage in a mass casualty emergency. MULTIBIODOSE partner laboratories are now prepared to coordinate and administer a response campaign in an emergency situation. They are now the largest network in the world with this competence. Working closely with other laboratories and radiation and health authorities regarding collection and testing of samples, they will support medical and public health decisions. The technology and coordination know-how should have significant impact on the ability of authorities to respond quickly and effectively in the case of mass radiation exposure.
Keywords
Radiation, radiation exposure, biodosimetric tools, radiological casualties, exposure dose
