What are the acute effects of radiation exposure that may not become evident until later?

Hematopoietic syndrome refers to the effects on the bone marrow and the subsequent impact on blood cell production resulting from radiation exposure. This syndrome is characterized by a reduction in the production of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, which can lead to severe and sometimes life-threatening conditions. Symptoms may not manifest immediately after exposure but can develop days to weeks later as the bone marrow fails to produce sufficient blood cells.

While skin burns and rashes, nausea and vomiting, and loss of appetite are also acute effects of radiation, they typically present shortly after exposure and can be early indicators of radiation damage. In contrast, the effects of hematopoietic syndrome often arise after an initial asymptomatic period, making it particularly significant in terms of delayed health consequences following significant radiation exposure.