Endogenous lipid pneumonia in rats after subacute exposure to CdCl2.

The objective of this report was to study lung cellular lesions in Wistar rats after subacute oral exposition to CdCl₂. The experimental groups were exposed to CdCl₂, through their drinking water in a concentration of 1 g/L, continuously for a period of 9 days. Histologically, all the exposed animals showed the incidence of interstitial pneumonia; hyperplasia of type II pneumocytes and Clara cells; the presence of foamy macrophages; and lesions linked to the existence of endogenous lipid pneumonia. Endogenous lipid pneumonia after CdCl₂ exposure has not been previously described; and in its pathogenesis, hyperplasia of type II pneumocytes and Clara cells activation could play an important role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]