Effects of methotrexate and total body irradiation on mouse lungs

Separate and combined effects of methotrexate and total body irradiation were studied on normal lungs of mouse. Forty female albino mice weighing 25 to 30 gms were divided into five groups including that of controls. On gross inspection, 70% of lungs of combined therapy group showed signs of congestion, 10% edematous changes and 20% blackish mottling. Microscopic examination revealed marked histopathological changes in the lungs of combined therapy group and milder changes in the methotrexate (Group III) and total body irradiation (Group IV) groups. These findings confirm the enhanced effects of combination of radiations and methotrexate.