[Electron microscopic study of the myocardium in cyanide poisoning]

Effect of the KCN poisoning on the cardiac muscle was studied by the aid of electron microscopic cytochemical methods. The early lesions revealed were: alterations in the region of the Z-lines, "septum formation" in the mitochondria, crystolysis, enlargment of the sarcotubules. Later destruction of the thick and thin filaments alteration of the intercalar discs were observed. Activity of the succinate-dehydrogenase and cytochromoxydase decreased. Authors emphasize the non-specific character of the alterations described.