A prospective, controlled study of the frequency of hepatitis following transfusion of commercial pooled plasma, stored for at least six months in the liquid state at 30–32 C was performed, using 5 per cent albumin as a control solution. Twelve of 120 plasma recipients developed hepatitis. None of the 46 control subjects developed hepatitis. Fifty per cent of the hepatitis cases were icteric (total serum bilirubin greater than 2.0 mg/100 ml). All of the instances of hepatitis were confirmed by liver biopsy. It is concluded that infectivity for hepatitis persists in some commercial plasma prepared by this technic.

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A technique is described for the use of iridium-192 implants, combined with external irradiation, in the treatment of primary anorectal malignancy. The method allows large doses of radiation to the primary growth, regional infiltration and extensions, with much lower doses to the surrounding normal tissues and organs. Acceptable criteria for conservative local treatment of selected primary anorectal carcinomas are established. For the poor risk patient, the patient who refuses operation, and those having primary or recurrent carcinoma with distant metastases, this method of treatment offers maximum benefit, palliation, and acceptable complication rates. With judicious selection of patients and careful attention to volume of tissue treated, total dose, and fractionalization, serious complications should be substantially reduced.

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