[Parameters of the optokinetic reaction in the rabbit following acute exposure of the eyes to UV-radiation].

Rabbit eyes were exposed to UV-B-radiation (= 280-320 nm) with a biologically effective dose of 1300 J/m2. The exposure inhibited the ability of animals to perceive motion and react to velocity changes. The limit velocity of adequate response and the critical velocity of nystagmus failure measured electrooculographically made 15% and 30% on day 2 and day 9 after exposure and returned to the norm only on day 20 after irradiation. Possible mechanisms of this effect and its action upon the visual function are discussed.