Abstract
Summary
1. A reduction in mortality rate of mice irradiated with X-ray by the use of desoxycorticosterone acetate has been demonstrated. 2. The reduction in mortality rate has been correlated with the protective action of desoxycorticosterone against radiation-induced liver changes. 3. It has been shown that reduction in mortality rate and protection against radiation-induced liver changes are dependent, within limits, on the size of the daily dose of desoxycorticosterone. 4. It has been suggested that the graded effect of desoxycorticosterone is possibly due to an antagonism to the indirect action of the X-rays which consists in the release of histamine-like substances from the irradiated tissues. 5. The data presented are proposed as a pharmacological basis which justifies the clinical use of desoxycorticosterone in the treatment of radiation sickness.
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