Growth in immature hypophysectomized pigs.

Abstract

Investigations on growth in immature pigs following hypophysectomy are inconclusive. Robinson (1937) has reported that immature pigs do not maintain skeletal growth after hypophysectomy. Results are presented on growth and development of immature hypophysectomized pigs. Hydrochlorothiazide (25–50 mg.) and cortisone acetate (25–50 mg.) were given intramuscularly before anaesthesia. Crossbred pigs, in halothane and oxygen anaesthesia, were hypophysectomized as described by du Mesnil du Buisson, Léglise & Chodkiewicz (1964). Six female pigs were hypophysectomized at 66–125 days of age. Five male pigs were hypophysectomized at 84–89 days of age, and four were killed about 100 days later. An intact litter-mate control animal was maintained for each hypophysectomized pig. All pigs were weighed twice weekly. Examination of the sella turcica of each hypophysectomized male pig at the time of killing showed no residual pituitary tissue. Five of the six female pigs were completely hypophysectomized when examined at the time of death. One