Histopathological changes caused by Doxorubicin in laboratory mice (Mus Musculus L)

Objective: To investigate the histopathological changes in laboratory mice (Mus Musculus) being given doxorubicin. Methods: The experimental study was conducted at the University of Basra between September 2009 and March 2011. Two groups with 5 mice each were used in this study. The experimental group was given 6mg/kg of doxorubicin intraperitoneal for 15 days. The control group was given distilled water for 15 days. On day 16, post-mortem was done. Biopsies were taken from the liver and intestine of both groups. Histopathologic slides were made for examination. Results: Changes in hepatic tissue involved were inflammatory cell infiltration, necrosis and vaculolation. While the liver of the control group was normal in structure. The intestinal section of the experimental group showed decomposition in the intestinal villi, while the intestines of control mice was normal. Conclusion: Doxorubicin is highly toxic to the liver and intestines of laboratory mice.