Histology and cytology of mouse epidermis when treated with methylcholanthrene

Abstract

The histological and cytological changes occurring when the mouse epidermis is treated with methylcholanthrene are subject to so much variation that it is almost impossible to draw any specific conclusions. Difficulties in the presentation of the results arise because of variations in the strains of mice used, differences in the site of application and methods of administration of the methylcholanthrene, differences in dosages of the carcinogenic solution applied, and the frequency of applications. Not only is it difficult to come to any conclusions because of the methods used in experimentation, but, also, the final results in many of the experiments are contrary to those found in others. Therefore, in all the experiments on epidermal carcinogenesis the changes occurring in any cellular structure can only be applied to one specific experiment, and not to others.