Histological changes in the retina in experimental alloxan-induced diabetes in rabbits

Mature rabbits were given a single dose of alloxan at the dose of 100 mg/kg of b.m. After 3 and 6 weeks and after 3 and 6 months the retina samples were taken from the areas immediate to the papilla of the optic nerve. Half-thin sections were stained with Swiss blue and azure, and the changes in the particular layers were evaluated under the light microscope. Morphological changes in the form of decreased number of neurones (especially ganglionic) and narrowed layer of rods and cones occurred after 6 weeks. After 3 months even further increase in the number of neurones and atrophy of the pigmented epithelium cells were observed. After 6 weeks nearly total atrophy of ganglionic neurones and distinct narrowing of all the layers were found.