Histological observations and morphometric analysis in lungs of hamsters after long term inhalation of cadmium compounds

Long term inhalation studies with Syrian hamsters were performed to evaluate the effects of different cadmium compounds on the lung of this species. No tumours were observed in the lung of the hamsters. Bronchiolization is localized at the bronchiolar-alveolar junction. The walls of the respiratory bronchioles, alveolar ducts and adjacent alveoli become replaced by cuboidal ciliated cells. Interstitial fibrosis was observed in a significantly high frequency.