The Histologic Effects Produced in Albino Rats by High Frequency Currents.

Abstract

Beginning in March, 1928, with the advice and help of H. R. Hosmer regarding the physical apparatus employed, a series of experiments was begun, the object of which was to ascertain the histologic effects produced in the animal body by high-frequency currents. A current oscillating at a rate of from 5 to 6 million cycles per second under a current strength of 2 to 4 amperes and a pressure of 3000 volts between the plate electrodes was employed. Anesthetized albino rats interposed between these electrodes, spaced from 3.5 to 6.0 cm., for time intervals varying from 4 to 30 minutes demonstrated a body-temperature rise directly dependent upon the duration of the exposure. Both rectal and abdominal temperatures of as high as 45° were obtained before the death of the rats. The most definite and constant cytologic results were produced in these rats, however, by rayings repeated on alternate days at rectal temperatures of from 40° to 42°, and especially when such body-temperatures were maintained over periods of time varying from 10 to 30 minutes.

Upon autopsy there was observable a definite diminution in the quantity of the body fluids and in blood volume. The ventricles of the heart were filled with clotted blood, usually in complete diastole. The periphery of the lungs, of the heart, and of the liver afforded evidences of an incipient coagulation necrosis. The blood vessels, likewise, in these superficial areas were dilated and filled with clotted blood. Such cytologic changes as were presented by the blood and bone-marrow are to be reported at a later date. The spleen was not markedly increased in size but on section was found to be choked with red blood cells in various stages of degeneration.