EFFECT OF LONG-TERM HYPERBARIC HE-O2 EXPOSURE ON WEIGHT AND HISTOLOGY OF ENDOCRINE ORGANS IN GROWING RATS

  • 1 January 1977
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 4  (4) , 317-323
Abstract
The effects of long-term hyperbaric exposure on endocrine organ weights and histology and on epiphyseal-plate width were studied in growing male rats. Six groups of rats were exposed to 21 ATA [atmospheres absolute pressure] He-O2 (200 mm Hg O2) and 6 groups were maintained at 1 ATA as room-air controls. Each group contained 8 rats. At intervals of 2, 3, 5, 8, 10 and 12 wk, 1 group was decompressed and studied along with a paired control group. Results indicated no changes in pituitary and adrenal gland weights. Testis weights were variable, but histology and sperm content were normal. Only the accessory sex organs decreased significantly in weight; prostate and seminal vesicle histology were normal. Tibial epiphyseal-plate width was reduced in 21-ATA groups. Long-term hyperbaric exposure had little effect on endocrine organs of the rat and observed weight changes were probably related to the reduced body weights.