ABSTRACT

Objective: Total body irradiation (TBI) is a choice therapy for the management of some malignancies; it is also a major cause of oxidative stress. The aim of this research is to sequentially document the effect of total body radiation on body function utilizing the sequential changes in liver function enzymes and proteins in rats.

Methods: Serum protein and liver enzymes were assessed using kits in rats exposed to total body radiations of 1.27 Gy/minute in cumulative doses to the fourth radiation at five-day intervals.

Results: Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT) and serum protein were significantly (p < 0.05) elevated with increasing radiation. No significant differences between experimental and control groups for bilirubin concentrations were noted at any time. Serum levels of albumin were significantly (p < 0.05) increased with the first to third radiation exposures but reduced at the fourth cumulative dose exposure.

Conclusion: Variations are associated with acute stress, inflammation which could be due to nonspecific stress reaction, while fluctuations could arise as a result of tolerance and repair within the liver. These tests are significant for diagnosis of radiation-induced injury and can be important for evaluation of its severity and correct management.