ETHYLENE GLYCOL TOXICITY IN MONKEY

The toxic effects of ethylene glycol in several macaque species are reported. The compound was administered in the drinking water at concentrations of 0.25 to 10%, and histologic studies were made after acute and chronic administration. With the exception of a few animals (which had calcium oxalate crystals in the brain) significant pathological alterations were limited to the kidneys. Animals receiving 15 ml/kg or more of ethylene glycol had calcium oxalate crystals within proximal renal tubules and associated tubular degeneration. Despite the absence of crystals in animals receiving less than 15 ml/kg, mild glomerular damage was found, and azotemia occurred in some animals, suggesting a toxic effect of ethylene glycol apart from its conversion to oxalic acid. © 1969.