Lehrbuch der Strahlentherapie.

These two volumes present all that is known at present about radiotherapy in gynecologic disorders. The introduction outlines biologic fundamental principles guiding our conception of the action of rays on living tissues. It is mentioned that the majority of authors disclaim a direct stimulating action of rays administered in small doses: the first reaction toward the "radioinsult" is a retrogressive change. In particular are discussed the effect of x-rays and radium rays on the animal and human ovary. An important conclusion is that a regeneration of follicles injured by irradiation is impossible; a resumption of the ovarian function is due to the maturing of follicles not destroyed by irradiation. Ovarian radiotherapy is contraindicated in instances of coexisting hyperthyroidism according to some authors, while others do not agree with this view. The various partially contradictory reports on the definite causation of phenomena of functional deficiencies following irradiation are presented and discussed.