Altered Brain Myelin Sheath Morphology after Rewarming in Situ

Abstract

In this study cerebral ultrastructure was examined in an in vivo rat model, after rewarming from profound hypothermia (15–13°C). Animals held at 37°C served as controls. After rewarming, brains were examined by electron microscope. Micrographs were taken randomly, analyzed anonymously, and quantified by morphometry. Serum analysis of the stress marker S-100β was carried out in identical groups. The most striking findings in rewarmed animals, when compared to controls, were alterations of myelin sheaths (p<.008) and elevated S-100β (p<.0001). This indicates that cells in the central nervous system are susceptible to injury in an experimental model of accidental hypothermia and rewarming.

Keywords:

• hypothermia
• rewarming
• ultra structure
• myelin damage

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.

Notes

This article is not subject to United States copyright laws.

This study was supported by grants from the Laerdal Foundation for Acute Medicine and the Norwegian Anesthesiological Society.

The skilled technical assistance of Fredrik Bergheim and Knut Steinnes is gratefully acknowledged.