Relating to the use of radiation or radiant energy (especially ultraviolet light or radioactive rays) in treating medical conditions.
From Greek 'aktis' (ray) + 'therapeutikos' (relating to healing). This medical term emerged in the early 20th century with developments in radiation therapy.
Before doctors fully understood how dangerous radiation could be, they were excited about 'actinotherapeutic' treatments—using rays to cure cancer and infections—and while the idea has some merit, early practitioners didn't realize they were also giving patients radiation poisoning!
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