[4 years of use of a linear accelerator in dermatology]

A recent acquisition in external radiotherapy, electrontherapy is the direct use of electrons which are essential in radiobiology. By their physical characteristics, the rapid fall in absorbed dosage in deep tissues, the electron beam is especially well adapted to dermatological practice. Four years use of a Bordeaux linear accelerator permitted the authors to determine the indications for the technique, its limits and practical details of its use. Carcinomas are the main indications, especially extensive lesions, advanced, relapsing, or even after other methods of radiotherapy, and in certain localisations. Wide or total irradiation raises new prospects in the treatment of hematodermia, perhaps, hope of a cure.