HISTOLOGICAL-CHANGES IN THE UTERUS OF RABBITS AFTER AN ADMINISTRATIONOF CADMIUM

The effects of cadmium on the uterus of rabbits were studied by light microscopy with morphometry. The experiment involved 32 animals. Cadmi um was applied intraperitoneally (i.p.) to group A (1.5 mg/kg body wei ght), perorally (p.o.) to group B (1.0 mg/kg b.w.) for a 5-month perio d, and also p.o. (1.0 mg/kg b.w.) for a 5-month period of application followed by a 7-month cessation of application for group C. All experi mental groups were compared to a control group (K), as well as to othe r experimental groups. Animals were examined after the experimental pe riod. In the uterus, the amount of endometrium was in the range of 48. 42% to 50.37%, and that of myometrium of 51.58% to 49.63%. The percent age of glandular epithelium in the endometrium was significantly lower in group A in comparison with group C (P<0.05). Amount of stroma was significantly higher in the group receiving i.p., in comparison with t he group receiving p.o. administration for a 5-month period (p<0.01). From the photographed pictures edematization of uterus with desintegra tions in the blood vessel wall and subsequent diapedesis were evident.