Science has its Heroes

Abstract

The death of Professor J. Bergonie, of Bordeaux, brings to the attention of pioneer radiographers and roentgenologists, the experimental work and personal characteristics of the premier French pioneer in this work. Professor Bergonie, as early as the beginning of the century, realized that before the effects of roentgen rays on pathological tissue could be measured and appreciated, it would be necessary to know positively the effects on living cell structure. For many years he carried on experimental work on the effects of roentgen rays on the living cells in both humans and animals. His pioneer work in this line was instantly felt in professional circles on the Continent and reflected in this country. This brief appreciation is not the place for details of his experimental work. Suffice to say that his death can be directly traced to his courageous and sacrificing study. Before he fully appreciated the effects of the rays on normal living structures, he was badly burned about the hands and right arm. Sev...