Prevention of experimental cerebral edema by corticosteroids

Abstract

A study of the effects of corticosteroids on TET-induced cerebral edema was performed. Reasons for the selection of this mode of inducing edema are given. New Zealand white rabbits were divided into 4 groups: TET-intoxicated controls, steroid controls, "simultaneous" steroids, and TET and "terminal" steroids with TET. Marked clinical improvement followed the simultaneous administration of steroids with TET, compared with the TET-intoxicated controls. Biochemical changes were noted in both the "simultaneous" and "terminal" groups. Water content fell 36. 7% in the "simultaneous" group and 15. 6% in ther "terminal" group. Sodium content fell 61% in the "simultaneous" group and 17% in the "terminal" group. Changes in the light microscopic and electron microscopic appearance are described in brains from the "simultaneous" group of animals. A discussion of these findings in relation to previous work is given.