Diagnosis of sexual cycle by means of vaginal smear method in the chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera)

Abstract

SummaryAn investigation was made as to whether the sexual cycle and pregnancy can be determined by means of vaginal smear in chinchillas. T his study represents the ®rst attem pt to record changes which occur in the pattern of exfoliated cells in chinchilla's vaginal smear during anoestrus, proestrus, oestrus, metoestrus and pregnancy. Fifteen female chinchillas aged from 8 months to 3 years and bred through harem breeding method were used. T he major change during proestrus was an increase in the proportion of super®cial cells, with a corresponding decrease in other cells. Goblet cells were observed in the smears prepared by strong aspiration during this cycle. Neutrophils, small and large intermediates and parabasal cells were not found in the smear during oestrus and the smear consisted of super®cial cells only. In the proportion of neutrophils, small and large intermediates and parabasal cells increased during metoestrus. In addition, metoestrum and foam cells were found in this cycle. In anoestrus; super®cial and parabasal cells were present in small numbers. Also small and large intermediate cells as well as neutrophils were present. Traces of foam and metoestrum cells were found. During pregnancy, neutrophils generally of medium density were present, parabasal; small and large intermediate cells were present at low or medium density, and super®cial cells were only present in trace amounts.

Effect of High-fat Diet on Tracheal Responsiveness to Methacholine and Insulin Resistance Index in Ovalbumin-sensitized Male and Female Rats

“…In female animals, vaginal smear cytology was used to determine the phases of the estrus cycle. 21 Based on this method, the ratio of three different types of cells in the vaginal smear is determined which included cornified cells, epithelial cells, and leukocytes. To prepare vaginal smear, approximately 0.3 ml of saline was slowly injected into the animal's vagina by a Transferpette sampler.…”

Biology, Husbandry, and Clinical Techniques of Guinea Pigs and Chinchillas

“…4 Estrus lasts 3 to 4 days and the entire estrus cycle about 28 to 35 days. 4 Estrus lasts 3 to 4 days and the entire estrus cycle about 28 to 35 days.…”

“…4 The predominant cells during estrus are cornified superficial epithelial cells. During these times, the vaginal closure membrane dissolves and is then repaired.…”

Reproductive response of xeric and mesic populations of the spiny mouse Acomys to photoperiod acclimation

“…The occurrence of estrus was monitored by studying vaginal epithelial cells (in consultation with Bekyurek et al, 2002). Vaginal samples were collected using saline infusion three times weekly throughout the acclimation period.…”