OBJECTIVETo observe the morphological changes and the regenerating ability of the fungiform papillae and taste buds after 60Co radiation with clinical doses in rats.

METHODSThe heads, faces and necks of 30 SD rats were radiated with a large dose and one time of 60Co in the clinical radiation. The general living condition and the number and shape of the fungiform papillae and taste buds of the tongues were observed after the radiation in rats.

RESULTSIn the group of 60Co radiation, the animals had wilting, decreasing appetite, losing weight. The heads, faces and necks of animals appeared redness, peeling of hair, increasing of secretions in 5 days after the 60Co radiation. The changes reached the summit in 10 days and the general living condition of the animals recovered in 60 days. The fungiform papillae and taste buds of the animals appeared degeneration, atrophy and collapsing in 5 days after the 60Co radiation. The injuries reached the summit in 10-20 days and the fungiform papillae and taste buds regenerated partially, and the some atrophied fungiform papillae and taste buds were not regenerated in 60 days.

CONCLUSIONThe damage to fungiform papillae and taste buds of tongue following the 60Co radiation with the clinical doses was very serious. The damaged fungiform papillae and taste buds can regenerate partially, but not completely.