EFFECTS OF X-IRRADIATION ON THE HYPOTHALAMUS: A POSSIBLE EXPLANATION FOR THE THERAPEUTIC BENEFITS FOLLOWING X-IRRADIATION OF THE HYPOPHYSIAL REGION FOR PITUITARY DYSFUNCTION*

Abstract

The paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei of the hvpothalamus are responsive to X-irradiation. Since the hypothalamus, in particular the paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei, exerts a considerable influence over the function of the pituitary body, and since the pituitary body is reported to be relatively radio-resistant, then perhaps the therapeutic benefits reported following X-irradiation of the hypophysial region for pituitary dysfunction are due to the effects of X-rays upon the hypothalamus.