Effects of cyclophosphamide administration on the lung of albino rat and protective role of antioxidants

ABSTRACT

The present work was designed to study the effects of cyclophosphamide on the albino rat lung, and to demonstrate the possible protective role of the antioxidants. The results revealed that administration of cyclophosphamide [20 mg/ kg b.w.] for one week caused thickening of the alveolar wall with partial detachment and degeneration of type II pneumocytes. Signs of congestion and fibrosis were also detected. Administration of cyclophosphamide [20 mg/kg b.w.] for two weeks caused pleomorphic cellular proliferation and obliteration of the alveolar lumen. Degenerative changes were noticed in both type I and type II pneumocytes. Type I pneumocytes manifested altered nuclear chromatin pattern and vacuolated cytoplasm. Type II pneumocytes showed detached microvilli, irregular cell membrane, pyknotic nucleus and multiple interconnected empty lamellar bodies. Signs of congestion and cellular infiltration by plasma cells, mast cells and neutrophils were noticed with accumulation of thick elongated collagen bundles in the alveolar wall. Administration of the antioxidants [0.1 ml of Antox], minimized the toxic effects of cyclophosphamide and even allowed regeneration of the alveolar wall. Regarding the alveolar pneumocytes, binducleated type II pneumocytes were noticed. Furthermore many pneumocytes acquired features intermediate between type I and type II in an attempt to restore the alveolar wall. Fibrosis and congestion were minimized