抄録
Histopathological studies of experimental pantothenic acid deficiency using rats have been performed. In cardiovascular system, moderate degenerative changes of muscle cells are found in the heart, though no marked lesion is encountered in both arterial and venous vessels. Slight or moderate atrophic and degenerative changes are demonstrated in mucosa of stomach and intestinal tracts. Marked centrolobular fatty degeneration and necrosis are observed in the liver. Marked arrest of spermatogenesis and atrophic changes are encountered in the testes. Hypophysis reveals moderate degenerative changes of glandular cells of anterior lobe. Marked scattered disruptions of follicles are found in thyroid. Adrenals exhibit bleeding and break-down of the cortex. In nervous system, both nerve cells and fibers are damaged. Degenerative changes are demonstrable in motor, sensory and vegetative neurons. Lowering of choline esterase activity and destruction of end-plate are also demonstrable.
