The Evolution of a Superficial X‐Ray Therapy Technique for Carcinoma of the Skin*

SUMMARY A basic technique for treatment of carcinoma of the skin is described. Essential objects are high cure rate and minimal late radiation scarring. Eight fractions of 450 rads are used in an overall time of three weeks. Three doses are given weekly except in the third week when the middle dose is omitted. A routine of held size reduction in successive weeks is practised to diminish edge effects on scars. Quality of radiation is varied according to depth of infiltration present. Dosage is reduced for moderately large lesions, and treatment is spread over 4 or 5 weeks for really large lesions. Very significant improvement in resultant radiation scars have followed adoption of the methods described.