Development of an Animal Model of Human Non-Freezing Cold Injury: Changes in Thermal Sensitivity Following Cold Exposure
Abstract
Non-freezing cold injury (NFCI) is a debilitating injury that results from damage to peripheral tissues exposed to cold temperatures for a prolonged period of time. NFCI continues to be a major operational hazard for personnel who must perform in cold environments. Despite considerable research, the mechanisms underlying NFCI have remained elusive. The objective of the research described in this report represents the initial efforts to develop an animal model that adequately reflects the symptomatology observed in human NFCI. A salient feature in the post cold exposure manifestation of NFCI in humans is that, following an initial period of sensation loss in the affected limb, an increased, often permanent, thermal sensitivity develops. This is one of the more debilitating aspects of NFCI since personnel are unable to tolerate even minor alterations in temperature of the hands or feet and are thus greatly restricted from performing in inclement weather conditions. In the present study, thermal sensitivity was measured in the tail of adult rats before and after the tail and a portion of the hind flank were exposed to cold (1-4 deg C) or warm (28 deg C) water for one to nine hours. (js)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 17, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA227174
Entities
People
- John R. Thomas
- John Schrot
- Karl F. Van Orden
- Mark P. Mcandrew
- Stephen T. Ahlers
Organizations
- Naval Medical Research Center