The Effects of Naphthalene Solid/Dust on the Cornea Proper of Rattus norvegicus albinus

Abstract

Histological sections of the eyes, exposed to naphthalene dust for varying periods, showed different degrees of localized edematous conditions of the corneal epithelium—particularly, on the basal cells—as manifested by intracellular accumulation of fluid. The sections obtained from rats whose eyes were exposed to solid naphthalene for 14 days (Group A) showed the least degree of corneal edema. Those obtained from another three, exposed to the substance for 21 days (Group B), showed a greater number of cells affected by edema. Group C rats, exposed to the same substance for 28 days, had evidences of the greatest pronunciation of edema. Rats designated to Group D served as control, sacrificed after the twenty-eight day of experimentation. The twelve rats used were of the same age (three and a half months old). Impairment of the corneal integrity, as in the case of edema, consequently leads to a distortion of vision since the refractive ability of the cornea is highly dependent on its structure.