Capillary Vascularization in Puppies Born at a Simulated Altitude of 20,000 Feet

Abstract

Puppies (7) born at an altitude of 20,000 feet were studied histologically for changes in capillary area. Significant increases in the ratio of capillary area to tissue area were found in the brain, heart and gastrocnemius. Other organs were examined, but were so engorged with blood that normal architecture and quantitative data were unobtainable. The possible significance of this increased ratio as an important step in acclimatization is discussed.