Evidence of Light Emission from the Eye During Radiotherapy

In the past, many patients had described seeing lights flashing during their radiation treatment even when their eyes were closed but no one was ever able to obtain evidence of this occurrence to prove it. Recently, new conclusions have been found by researchers at Dartmouth’s and Dartmouth-Hitchcock’s Norris Cotton Cancer Center that there is enough light created inside the eye to allow this visual sensation. These light emissions are very subtle and scientists are not surprised to not have had the ability to record these previously. To learn more, read this article that describes how researchers plan to further this phenomenon.  The main benefit of this research finding is the potential to improve imaging techniques in determining if radiation cuts across the eye during treatments. It also gives patients peace of mind having an explanation behind those mysterious flashings they may see.