ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of mannitol injection into the rabbit ear vein by intravenous catheter on endothelial cells apoptosis, thrombus formation, the expression of plasma tissue factor (TF) and von Willebrand factor (vWF). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-four Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into experiment and control group and received 20% mannitol or normal saline via ear margin veins, respectively. Both groups were injected daily. On days 1, 3, 5, and 7 after catheterization, rabbits were subjected to intraperitoneal anesthesia and their ear veins were isolated and then subjected to hematoxylin and eosin staining. Cell apoptosis was evaluated using TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotide transferase mediated d-UTP nick end labeling) staining, and the levels of TF and vWF were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: Compared with the control group, the experiment group showed significantly increased thrombus formation (p < 0.05), and a significant higher rate of apoptosis in endothelial cells (p < 0.05) on days 3, 5, and 7. In addition, the experiment group showed significant elevation of plasma TF and vWF on days 3, 5, and 7 (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Continuous mannitol injection by intravenous catheterization induces more serious venous thrombus formation and endothelial cells apoptosis and higher TF and vWF levels than normal saline injection. These data suggest that clinical use of hyperosmotic mannitol by intravenous catheter may exert direct deleterious effects on vascular endothelium.
