Acute toxicity of T2 mycotoxin to the guinea-pig by inhalation and subcutaneous routes

The acute inhalation and subcutaneous toxicity of T2 mycotoxin has been investigated in guinea-pigs. The toxicity by the two routes was quantitatively and qualitatively similar. The LCt50 was 5749 mg min m-3 and the subcutaneous LD50 1-2 mg kg-1. Histological changes in the decedents which were similar by both routes of administration were most marked in the lymphoreticular system but also occurred in the gut. Lymphocytolysis and phagocytosis occurred in both the cortex of the thymus and of the lymph nodes. Lymph nodes were more severely affected in the decedents among the animals dosed with T2 by the subcutaneous route. The small intestine exhibited dead and dying cells throughout the lamina propria after T2 by either route.