The Biological Basis of Radiation Therapy

Abstract

This outstanding contribution to the literature of radiation biology serves as an important bridge between the clinic and basic research radiation biology. As in most multiple author works there is variation of quality and depth of coverage of the material, but in the main the editor has done a very good job. The first chapter on "Physical Considerations" is somewhat brief. That on pathologic effects is good, but in the renal discussion no mention was made of the significant effect hypertension has on sensitizing the kidney to radiation. Also the statement was made that glomerular filtration rate and renal plasma flow were temporarily depressed by as little as 400 rem. This is not borne out by the author's reference. These functions were depressed as long as they were measured (12 months) in their small series. Lionel Cohen's chapter on "Radiation Response and Recovery" is outstanding. This subject is covered in