Intravaginal administration of talc alters red cell fragility and lipid peroxidation in rats

Abstract

The study was carried out to investigate the effects of fourteen days administration of intravaginal talc solution on erythrocyte indices, osmotic fragility and lipid peroxidation in rats. Intravaginal talc solution was administered for 14 days, following which erythrocyte indices such as red blood cell (RBC) count, haemoglobin concentration (Hb), haematocrit or Packed Cell Volume (PCV), reticulocyte count and erythrocyte osmofragility were determined in addition to plasma malondialdehyde (MDA). The RBC count, Hb, PCV and reticulocyte count were reduced significantly (p<0.05) following 14 days administration of intravaginal talc solution, while erythrocyte osmofragility was significantly elevated (p<0.05). There was also significant increase (p<0.05) in the plasma MDA of talc-treated rats. The study therefore showed that administration of intravaginal talc solution for 14 days may increase red cell osmofragility and lipid peroxidation as well as exhibit anti-erythropoietic properties. In conclusion, it is advisable that caution should be exercised in the administration of talc powder around the perineum of females because of its potential to traverse the female reproductive system and cause systemic damage.