Beta Radiation Cataracts

FOR ABOUT 14 years beta radiation from radium and radon has been used successfully in the treatment of certain external ocular conditions because of the relatively superficial effects and accurate localization of the radiation. Only recently, cataract has been reported1following the extensive use of beta radon in two eyes with severe vascularizing keratitis, and personal communications from other clinics have substantiated the possibility of this complication. In 1950, Friedell, Thomas, and Krohmer2reported the use of another source of beta radiation, Sr90-Y90. The depth dose of the beta particles of Y90is comparable to that of radium and radon, and therefore it is not surprising that Wilson * and von Sallmann3independently reported that clinical and histologic changes in the lens could be produced in the rabbit eye by the Sr90applicator. Because this applicator is commercially available to many physicians, it