Clinical Aspects of Nonionizing Radiation

Various types of human injury attributable to nonionizing radiations are presented. Because of the unique combination afforded by the optical qualities of the eye and by the differential diagnostic features of resultant ocular pathology, an ophthalmological examination frequently can provide the signature indicating whether visible or invisible radiations produced the injury. For example, visible radiations principally result in various forms of macular photoretinitis and retinal burn or detachment or chorioretinal melanomata; whereas, invisible radiations principally produce thermal types of cataract or uveitis. Other systemic injuries and effects are also discussed. A rationale is submitted in support of a new concept, elastic membrane fatigue, as an etiological factor for otherwise inexplicable findings, such as the increased incidence of cardiovascular disease, which parallels the increased ambient levels of electronic smog found in urban environments.