Abstract
Gallic acid, acting as an antioxidant, anti-precipitant and cytoprotective agent, was used as a possible remedial natural component for treating experimentally induced esophageal burn. Wistar rats (n=24) were divided into three groups. Control group was given 1 mL 0.9% NaCl. Experimental esophageal burn was induced with 1 mL 40% NaOH application to the esophagus in groups 2 and 3. Gallic acid® (20 mg/kg) was administered to the treated group via oral gavage for 10 days. Removed tissues were fixed and paraffin blocks were prepared. Histopathological examination was performed after the sections had been stained with hematoxylin-eosin. Tumor necrosis factor alpha and caspase-3 antibodies were used on immunohistochemical analysis. In the esophageal burn group, necrosis, degeneration and numerous apoptotic cells, as well as intense inflammatory cell infiltration and fibrosis in the muscle layer were observed under light microscope. In the treated group, remodeling of epithelial cells with marked reduction in the connective tissue collagen content was observed, as well as marked reduction in the volume of collagen and abundance of inflammatory cells in blood vessels. Gallic acid treatment may help heal esophageal burns and prevent complications.