Effect of closure of eyelids on lacrimal gland and retina of lepus domesticus

ABSTRACT

The present work was performed to study the effect of closure of eyelids on lacrimal gland and retina of tame rabbit [Lepus domesticus]. Twelve animals were used [ten experimental and two control]. Under light ether anaesthesia the margins of upper and lower eyelids of experimental animals were cut by sharp sissors and the two lids of each eye were sutured together with fine surgical silk [zero] under strict aseptic conditions. Animals were left to live for two months after the operation. After sacrification of rabbits the lacrimal glands were extracted and eyes enucleated. Then histological specimens were obtained, fixed in formalin 10%, embedded in paraffin. Sections were cut at 7u, stained with Hx. and E. in addition to Masson trichrome stain [for connective tissue]. It was observed that the glandular acini was more affected than the connective tissue of the lacrimal gland. The structural changes found in the lacrimal gland indicate decreased activity. In the retina the layer of rods and cones increased in thickness showing degeneration. Folding of nuclear layers with retrograde degenerative changes was observed. The inner plexiform layer showed loss of histological details. Loss of cohesion between cells of ganglion cell layer was found