Irradiation of Cancer Following Injection of Colchicine.

Abstract

SummaryX-rays were markedly more lethal to bits of carcinoma from colchicine-treated animals than to similar pieces of carcinoma from untreated animals, as shown by the infrequency of "takes" when implanted in susceptible animals. By administering colchicine to rats bearing actively growing carcinoma 15 to 18 hours before irradiation the effectiveness of X-rays in completely destroying or in retarding the growth of the cancer was increased. Light, frequent dosages of X-rays were less injurious to the rats and more effective in securing disappearance of the tumors than heavy, infrequent dosage.