The effect of chronic beta-aminoproprionitrile intoxication on the periodontium of the rat. A light microscopic and histochemical study with review of the literature.

This histologic study of the periodontium of male white rats with chronic lathyrism demonstrates the appearance, progression, and persistence of certain pathologic changes caused by disordered collagen synthesis and maturation. Typical lesions were seen after 6 weeks. These include increased vascularity, especially in the periapical region, hyalinization and calcification of the transseptal fibers, alveolar bone and cementum resorption, interruption of the periodontal fibers with formation of typical hyaline zones surrounded by palisades of atypical fibroblasts, known as "lathyritic bodies," and an increase in mast cells.