[Experimental chronic poisoning by mercury and alcohol: histopathologic, ultrastructural findings and toxicologic and...

Rats were treated with HgCl2 and/or alcohol per os in a standard diet as to get a chronic intoxication. Histological and ultrastructural examination of the liver, GPT, GOT, LDH enzymatic activities, and toxicological mercury evaluation were performed. Liver cell degenerative changes with focal necrosis, and structural alteration and fibrosis were demonstrated in the group of rats treated with HgCl2. The combined administration of HgCl2 and alcohol did not result in more advanced lesions, even if steatosis could be demonstrated in the liver. An increase of the GPT, GOT and LDH enzymatic activities was demonstrated in the rats of both groups but it was higher in the rats treated with HgCl2 and alcohol combined. On the contrary, the liver and kidney mercury storage was higher in the rats treated with HgCl2 alone.