Acute necrosis of R3230AC mammary tumor or thyroid carcinoma subcutaneously implanted in F344 rats was achieved by injection of a strongly hypertonic hexose and serotonin solution at 37 degrees C into and around the tumors. Changes in gross metabolism, hematology, and blood chemistry were then followed over a 9-day period, and they were most marked during or at the end of the first 24 hours. Food intake of the rats was sharply reduced, whereas drinking and diuresis were increased. Marked hemodilution and increased serum concentrations of aspartate aminotransferase, potassium, and uric acid were observed, as well as stable serum concentrations of sodium and chloride. Glucose overload, as opposed to fructose overload, led to secondary hypoglycemia. From day 2 food consumption returned to normal and increased thereafter. Water intake and urine output remained high. After an initial loss, body weight caught up with that of control rats. Hematocrit recovered partially, whereas blood chemistry progressively returned to about normal values.