Electron-dense deposits in epididymal cells of rats chronically treated with lead acetate (Pb(II))

Electron microscopic studies were performed to investigate the influence of chronic lead acetate treatment on morphology of rat epididymis. Dense, lead-loaded inclusions were found (using X-ray microanalysis) in the cytoplasm of epididymal principal cells, especially in the caput of epidymis. They were also present, but in smaller amounts, in smooth muscle cells. Usually, the inclusions were located in vacuoles, rarely without any surrounding membrane. Similar lead-containing structures were found in the epididymal lumen. The localization of lead deposits suggests the ability of lead to pass from blood vessels through the epithelial cells of the epididymis to its lumen. It can be therefore postulated, that lead can be eliminated from the male genital tract together with ejaculate. (author). 43 refs, 7 refs