An Eye Lesion in Rats Fed Low Chromium Diets

Abstract

In the course of experiments with rats raised with a 10% soy protein ration, the occurrence of a corneal opacity was observed. The present study was designed to determine whether this lesion is reproducible and whether it is related to the low chromium content of the diet (less than 100 ppb). Ten of 60 rats fed this ration without chromium supplement developed a pronounced opacity of the cornea and congestion of the iridal vessels. Supplementation of the drinking water with 2 ppm chromium prevented the appearance of the lesion, but did not cure the fully developed defect. The conjunctivae and the lens were not grossly affected.