The Value of Grenz-Ray Therapy for Acne Vulgaris

Journal Article · Tue Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1963 · Dermatology

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1159/000254933· OSTI ID:4660763

de Groot, W. P.; Prakken, J. R.; Verbeek, Ann M. J. A.; Woerdeman, M. J.

In view of recent efforts to eliminate the use of radiotherapy for benign conditions or conditions treatable by other means, to avoid the possible detrimental effects of radiation, an evaluation of this treatment of acne was made. In a controlled, double-blind study in 40 patients, one area of skin received 1800 r (in thrice weekly 100-r doses) of 10-kv x irradiation. Comparable areas of skin were shamirradiated with the x-ray apparatus shielded by lead. In no case had the acne cleared up on the irradiated side. ln about half of the cases no difference was seen between the two areas. The remaining showed a systematic difference in favor of the treated side 2-6 weeks after treatment. However, in the majority of cases no improvement attributable to grenz-ray irradiation could be ascertained. It is concluded that grenz-ray therapy of acne, at least at the dosage used, is ineffective. At these doses, inhibition of sebaceous gland secretion would not be expected to occur. Severe erythema followed by peeling was not seen in these patients.

• Research Organization: Univ. of Amsterdam
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• NSA Number: NSA-17-035364
• OSTI ID: 4660763
• Journal Information: Dermatology, Journal Name: Dermatology Journal Issue: 5 Vol. 126; ISSN 1018-8665
• Country of Publication: Country unknown/Code not available
• Language: English

Related Subjects

62 RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE
ACNE
GLANDS
INSTRUMENTS
LEAD
MAN
RADIATION DOSES
RADIOTHERAPY
SEBACEOUS GLANDS
SHIELDING
SKIN
X RADIATION