TREATMENT OF TUBERCULOSIS OF THE ANTERIOR PORTION OF THE EYE WITH BETA RAYS OF RADIUM

Abstract

In a paper on the treatment of ocular tuberculosis, written with Dr. Randolph in 1937, mention was made of the therapeutic use of the beta rays of radium, and it was stated that such treatment appeared of decided promise. This method of treatment was made available through the agency of Dr. Curtis F. Burnam, of the Howard A. Kelly Hospital, who devised the particular applicator used in 1927 and since that time has used it in the treatment of various ocular conditions. In fact, as early as 1934 Dr. Burnam had treated several patients with tuberculous keratitis with beta irradiation. A full report on beta irradiation will be made later by Dr. Burnam. The purpose of this paper is to give a preliminary report of such therapy for tuberculosis of the anterior portion of the eye, to which it appears singularly applicable. When radioactive elements disintegrate, energy is liberated in