Adrenal Hemorrhagic Effect of Thorotrast

Thorotrast administered intravenously has been shown to produce bilateral adrenal hemorrhage in rabbits. This effect is directly related to the dosage of Thorotrast employed, and is more frequently observed in larger rabbits than in small rabbits. Adrenal hemorrhage was dependent upon the particulate material in Thorotrast (thorium dioxide) and was not produced by the dextrin medium alone. The possible role of at least 3 demonstrated activities of Thorotrast—adrenal stimulation, production of multiple coagulation defects, and vascular wall injury is discussed.