[Histopathological changes induced by thermal exposure in the rat liver]

To clarify the effects of a thermal environment on rats, histopathological changes, and temperatures in the rectum and eyes of Fischer strain rats exposed to a thermal environment of 32 degrees C for 2 days or 7 days were investigated. Thermal exposure to 32 degrees C induced elevations in rectal and ocular temperatures. The increased temperature levels persisted during the thermal exposure. Vacuolar degeneration surrounding the hepatic vein was observed in rat livers exposed to 32 degrees C for 7 days. No abnormalities were observed in other organs. These results indicate that thermal exposure to 32 degrees C induces vacuolar degeneration in hepatocytes due to the elevation of body temperature.