Abstract
The consistent occurrence of a low plasma protein level in patients with chronic renal edema led to the attempt to produce a similar state in experimental animals. In the acute experiments on dogs carried out several years ago in collaboration with J. F. McIntosh no edema was obtained except in 2 dogs and then not to any marked degree.
The present work is based on the development of a method for the production of chronic hypoproteinemia. Dogs are bled twice daily, 400 to 500 cc. of blood being withdrawn each time while the corresponding volume of erythrocytes suspended in modified Locke's solution is reinjected into the saphenous vein. 1500 cc. of 0.85% NaCl solution are given daily by stomach tube.
Edema usually appears about the fifth day, at first in the soft-tissues of the prepubic region and the external genitals, later on the buttocks and thighs, and then on the abdominal and chest walls or even the neck. At the same time ascites develops, in association with hydrothorax and even pulmonary edema.
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