We studied indices of hematologic function and exposure to 2,3,7,8-tetrachloro-dibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) in Vietnam War veterans of Operation Ranch Hand, the Air Force unit responsible for the aerial spraying of Agent Orange and other herbicides in Vietnam. The herbicides were contaminated with TCDD. We measured TCDD serum level in 1987 or later and extrapolated the result to the time of service in Vietnam. We studied serum TCDD level in relation to red blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, white blood cell count, platelet count, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate at each of four physical examinations. Compared with veterans not involved in Operation Ranch Hand, those with the highest TCDD levels in Operation Ranch Hand had mean corpuscular volumes that were about 1% higher and platelet counts that were about 4% higher. These small increases were unlikely to be of clinical significance and may not have been caused by TCDD.
Learning Objectives: N/A
Keywords: Vietnam, Veterans' Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.