Experimental Studies on Medionecrosis of the Aorta

Abstract

Hyaluronidase, A.A.N. (lathyrism factor), vitamin E, and chondroitin sulfate were given to weanling rats alone and in combinations, then vascular, bone, skin and ocular changes were studied morphologically.(1) Vascular chages in the media, elastic fiber swelling, fragmentation and cyst formation (Medionecrosis aortae cystica) were more pronounced in hyaluronidase administered rats than those of A.A.N.Hyaluronidase caused bone changes of osteogenesis imperfecta similar to Marfan's syndrome and kyphoscoliosis was also produced. In A.A.N. group, pronounced bone changes were not seen with exception of a case of fractured thoracic vertebrae.(2) Medionecrosis aortae cystica can also arise from the mesoderm metabolic disorder.(3) Marfan's syndrome and lathyrism are similar pathological conditions and the basis lies in the abnormal disorder of the mesoderm.(4) Vitamin E and chondroitin sulfate seemed to prevent excessive vascular and bone changes when used together with hyaluronidase.(5) No changes in the skin suggesting Ehlers-Danlos syndrome were noted after the use of hyaluronidase and A.A.N. though the skin became softer and thinner.(6) The use of hyaluronidase and A.A.N. did not produce any eye or E.C.G. changes.