Irradiation and Tissue Immunity II. Response to Injection of Staphylococci in X-Irradiated Skin Areas of Rabbits

X-Ray treatment of carbuncles and furuncles (boils)

“…These findings led Kahn 37 to conclude that loose subcutaneous tissue possesses a greater localizing capacity than the tightly layered skeletal muscle, suggesting that localization is an immunological phenomenon. Further support for an immunological explanation is found by the fact that the localizing response to injected protein increases with the increase in antibody formation in immunity.…”

“…The observation of the anti-localizing effect of irradiation was extended by Kahn 37 to the migration of virulent staphylococci in irradiated and in nonirradiated areas of rabbits. The irradiated area displayed little or no lesions, suggesting the escape of the organisms from this area, while the nonirradiated area showed severe lesions, indicating that the organisms became localized.…”

“…The radiation also enhances the macrophage and PMN and mediates phygocytosis to resolve infection and inflammation processes Kahn 37 and Kahn et al [38][39][40][41][42] Proposed an anti-localization effect induced by x-ray treatment Oxidative burst hypothesis Schaue et al 43 Low doses of x-rays diminish the production of reactive oxygen species leading to a reduction in inflammatory processes was protective if administered IV but not so if given IM or SC. Overall, 10 units were necessary for toxin neutralization if given IM while 20 units if administered SC.…”

“…Kahn et al [38][39][40][41][42] and Kahn 37 briefly explored the relationship of the anti-localization effect of x-rays that is used in therapy. Based upon these findings, it may be proposed that x-ray therapy effectiveness in the treatment of furuncles and carbuncles may be related to its capacity to induce an anti-localization effect.…”