Rabbit model of radiation-induced lung injury

Objective To explore the feasibility of establishing an animal model of chronic radiation-induced lung injury. Methods Twenty-eight New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into 3 groups (the right lung irradiation group, the whole lung irradiation group and the control group). Animal model of radiation-induced lung injury was established by high-does radiotherapy in the irradiation groups, then all rabbits underwent CT and pathological examinations at 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 16 weeks, respectively after radiation. Results Within 4 weeks of irradiation, some rabbits in the right lung irradiation group and whole lung irradiation group died. CT and pathological examinations all showed acute radiation pneumonitis. At 8–12 weeks after irradiation, CT scanning showed ground glass samples signs, patchy shadows and fibrotic stripes. Pathological examination showed the fibrosis pulmonary alveolar wall thickened obviously. Conclusions The clinical animal model of chronic radiation-induced lung injury which corresponds to practical conditions in clinic can be successfully established.