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Transverse vaginal septum in the specific-pathogen-free Wistar rat
L M De Schaepdrijver1, J L Fransen, E S Van der Eycken
1Department of Toxicology, Janssen Research Foundation, Beerse, Belgium.
Laboratory Animal Science
|April 1, 1995
Summary
A rare transverse vaginal septum anomaly was found in Wistar rats, causing infertility. This congenital defect, though uncommon, can impact reproductive toxicity studies.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Reproductive Biology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Transverse vaginal septum is a rare congenital anomaly.
- It can affect reproductive capacity in animal models.
- This condition may be overlooked in routine examinations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the incidence and characteristics of transverse vaginal septum in specific-pathogen-free Wistar rats.
- To discuss the implications of this anomaly in reproductive toxicity studies.
- To compare findings with existing literature on vaginal anomalies.
Main Methods:
- Macroscopic and microscopic examination of reproductive tracts in Wistar rats.
- Clinical assessment of affected rats.
- Review of relevant scientific literature.
Main Results:
- A 2% incidence of transverse vaginal septum was observed in the studied rat substrain.
- Septa were mostly complete, with some incomplete cases showing a central gap.
- Affected rats were clinically healthy but infertile due to spermatozoa obstruction.
- Cranial reproductive organs showed dilation and accumulation of fluid and debris.
Conclusions:
- Transverse vaginal septum is a rare but significant finding in Wistar rats.
- This anomaly can lead to infertility and complicate reproductive toxicity assessments.
- Awareness and careful examination are crucial for identifying this condition in research settings.