The delayed effects of ethacrynic acid on the stria vascularis of the guinea pig.

Guinea pigs were administered 40 mg ethacrynic acid per kg b.wt. and sacrificed at 30-48 minutes, 3-4 hours, 2 or 7 days post-drug. Cochlear potentials (EP and CP) were monitored before sacrifice. At 30-48 minutes, the potentials had decreased considerably, and a marked edema plus cytological changes were visible in the stria vascularis. The potentials had recovered to about 75% of their original value at 3-4 hours; some cell recovery was visible, but the edema was still present. Potentials recorded from the basal turn were normal at 2 and 7 days, although some strial cells showed deterioration.