The Effects of Beta Radiation on the Eye

Abstract

Teleangiectasis has been observed with doses of 3,000 to 5,000 rep; keratinization of the conjunctival epithelium followed surface doses between 5,000 and 10,000 rep; and superficial punctate keratitis occurred after a surface dose of 5,000 rep. The latter persisted for 5 months after 20,000 rep or more. Corneal vascularization was noted as a late effect after surface doses between 20,000 and 30,000 rep. and corneal scarring after 25,000 rep. Iris atrophy occurred after surface doses of 20,000 to 30,000 rep. Cataract formation followed 2,300 to 22,000 rep doses in 8 cases. In these patients the applicator was a glass radon bulb. From this clinical survey it is concluded that the safe range for irradiation of the human eye with beta rays is about 2,000 to 3,000 rep on the surface.