Augmented Chemiluminescence Response of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Cells in Calves Receiving Repeated Daily Sprayings of Ammonia Mist into the Nasal Cavities

Abstract

The effect of ammonia inhalation on the luminol-dependent chemiluminescence response of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cells was investigated in clinically normal calves receiving eight ml of ammonia water (5,000 ppm) in the form of aerosol sprayed into the nasal cavities (four ml into each nostril) once a day for two weeks. The chemiluminescence level of the BAL cells was augmented following the sprayings of ammonia compared with prior to exposure. The level still remained high one week after the exposure was removed, but showed recovery after two weeks.