Adverse effects of superficial X-ray therapy and recommendations for safe use in benign dermatoses.

The danger of superficial radiotherapy for benign dermatoses has been exaggerated. It is safe if certain precautions are observed. The permissible life time maximum cumulative dose of conventional superficial X rays generated at 50 kV given to any area of skin is 1000 R, and of grenz rays, 5000 R.