Alterations in histomorphology, biochemical parameters and gross morphometry in liver of albino rats following administration of rifampicin and isoniazid

Abstract

Background: Rifampicin (RIF) and Isoniazid (INH) are two main medicinal drugs used as first line regimen in the treatment of Tuberculosis. These drugs have shown to induce hepatotoxicity and alteration of liver parenchyma upon their administration. The aim of this study was to investigate the gross morphometric, histomorphological and biochemical effect of INH and RIF on the liver architecture. Methods: Adult albino rats with an average weight of between 150g to 250g were used in the study. A total of 12 rats were randomly assigned into 2 groups each group containing 6 rats. Group one was the control group (no intervention). Group two was the experimental group, given INH (50mg/kgbwt) and RIF (50mg/kgbwt). At the end of the experiment, after 21 days, the albino rats were sacrificed humanely, liver harvested, weighed and the gross parameters measured using a ruler and caliper. Blood samples were taken for liver serum biomarkers analysis. Thereafter, the livers were processed and stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin for histological examination. Results: There was a significant (p value < 0.0001) decrease in gross morphometric measurements of the weight, length, width, thickness in experimental group. The three selected liver biochemical parameters (ALT, AST and ALP) were observed to be high above their normal ranges. The liver sections in positive control group showed deranged histomorphological features. Conclusion: co-administration of Rifampicin and Isoniazid can have effect on gross morphometric, histomorphology and liver biochemical parameters of the liver therefore, their administration should be done in caution.