Histological and histochemical studies on the effect of colchicine on the liver of the albino rat

ABSTRACT

The effect of long term administration of a chronic daily dose of colchicine [1 mg and 6 mg/kg body weight] on the liver of the albino rat has been investigated. Collagenous and reticular fibres of the stroma were disrupted. Some empty spaces appeared in the portal tract. Lymphocytic and mononuclear cellular infiltration were also observed in the portal tracts as well as near central veins. Large and small vacuoles were seen inside hepatocytes in the peripheral zones of the hepatic lobules. Golgi body was enlarged in size. Depletion of fat droplets and glycogen granules was a marked feature. However, at the end of experiment, there was an apparent regeneration of the collagenous and reticular fibres with a decrease in size of the Golgi body. The mononuclear and lymphocytic infiltration were also diminished. Reappearance of glycogen granules in most of the hepatic lobules was noticed but the depletion of fat droplets was still persistent. In Hx. and E. stained sections, hepatocytes were apparently similar to those of the control group