Chloral Hydrate Ileus

Intraperitoneal injection of chloral hydrate or related compounds causes peritonitis and ileus. The ileus may not be apparent until up to 5 weeks after administration of the drug. Rats develop distended abdomens due to segmental atony and distension of the jejunum, ileum, and cecum (Fig. 2.75). Focal serosal hyperemia can also occur. This must be differentiated from megaloileitis that may arise in rats with Tyzzer's disease.