Radiation therapy in diseases of the eye.

Because of the wide variety of x-rays now available, selectivity is possible and important in treatment of diseases of the eye. By the use of short-range radiation, newly developed eye shields and the insulation of the eyelid itself, and by careful angulation of the beam, the desired irradiation can be given where it is needed without injury to surrounding tissues. The authors have found the 50 kv x-ray unit to be the most reliable and adaptable for most circumstances. The skin of the eyelid reacts to irradiation more sensitively than other tissues. The cornea reacts with keratitis and sometimes intractable ulceration. The iris, uveal tract and retina are less seriously affected. At the University of California Hospital irradiation has been found satisfactory for treatment of corneal ulcer, keratitis, pterygium, certain types of conjunctivitis, episcleritis, corneal vascularization, iritis, uveitis, and hemangioma. Irradiation may be of great benefit in absolute glaucoma with pain and blindness. Of 42 patients with carcinoma of the eyelid treated between 1935 and 1946, 27 had no recurrence in five years, 5 had recurrence, 7 died of other causes and follow-up was incomplete on 3. Good cosmetic result was usually achieved. No recurrence has been observed in 22 patients treated since 1946. Irradiation has been used with success in other kinds of cancer of the eye structures.