Absorption of Iron Following X-Irradiation of the Exteriorized Small Intestine

Summary

The intestinal absorption of radioiron was determined following X-irradiation of the exteriorized small intestine in the rat. The morphologic lesion resulting was discontinuous, with areas of intestinal radiation injury alternating with areas which were essentially intact or hypertrophic. The results indicate that there was an increase in radioiron absorption following irradiation and suggest that this increase was due to augmented absorption in those areas of the small intestine which did not develop the morphologic characteristics of severe radiation injury. Possible mechanisms are discussed.