The purpose of low-dose irradiation of blood components is to prevent which condition?

The purpose of low-dose irradiation of blood components primarily is to prevent graft-versus-host (GVH) disease. This condition occurs when transfused immune cells from the donor attack the recipient's tissues. Irradiation inactivates the T lymphocytes in the blood components, reducing the risk of them mounting an immune response against the recipient's tissues.

While post-transfusion purpura involves the destruction of platelets and could theoretically be related to immune responses, it is not directly prevented by irradiation. Other practices, such as using antigen-matched platelets, are more aligned with preventing this condition. Sterilization of blood components is generally achieved through processes like filtration or the use of chemical agents, rather than irradiation. Additionally, noncardiogenic pulmonary edema is a complex condition that can arise for various reasons and isn't directly targeted by irradiation of blood components.