ABSTRACT
Objective To explore the image characteristics of the opening of the blood brain barrier (BBB) at the early stages of severely scalded rabbits. Methods Twenty-six rabbits inflicted with 50% total burn surface area (TBSA) of Ⅲ degree were randomized into 7 groups: pre-scald, post-scald at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 h groups. The spiral CT (SCT) and MRI were used to observe the image changes during the corresponding phases. Samples from the anterior cortex, temporal lobe, posterior cortex, cerebellum, and brain stem were examined by light and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), respectively. Results The pathological features showed that neurons and oligodendrocytes swelled lightly and blood vessels were congested and dilated at 3-4 h after scald. CT image changes were found at 5 h after scald and became more remarkable at 6 h after scald. MRI image changes could not be found within 6 h after scald. Conclusion The opening of BBB is earlier than the formation of edema. Enhanced CT plays an important role in manifesting the opening of BBB at the early stages of severely scalded rabbits.