Experimental intracerebral haemorrhage: description of a semi-coagulated autologous blood model in rats.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: A major limitation of intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) research is the lack of reproducible animal models. The purpose of the present study was to produce experimental haemorrhages and to characterise the lesion by histology and behaviour in rats. METHODS: A total of 180 male SD rats were anaesthetised with chloral hydrate. Rats were placed in a stereotactic frame, and a microinjector was introduced through a burr hole into the right striatum. Each rat received an injection of 60 μL of semi-coagulated autologous whole blood over 6  minutes. The needle was slowly withdrawn 40 minutes after the injection. Control rat had only needle insertion. Time courses of haematoma resolution and pathological changes after intrastriatal injection of semi-coagulated autologous blood were observed. Neurological status was evaluated on days 1, 3, 5, 7, 14 and 21.The behavioural tests used were forelimb placing and a corner turn test. RESULTS: Rats with ICH had a marked, persistent neurological deficit and a highly reproduced haematoma in shape and size. Histologically, haematoma was observed at 1, 3, 5 and 7 days and cysts at 3 weeks. Behavioural abnormalities were present for 14  days, with the recovery of function occurring during the third week. CONCLUSIONS: The present ICH model in rats produces a consistent neurological deficit and reproducible haematoma in shape and size. This model could be useful to evaluate the future pharmaceutical therapies in ICH.