Nephrotoxicity in rabbits following subchronic exposure to Nigerian crude oil

Abstract

Nephrotoxicity in rabbits following subchronic exposure to crude oil was studied. The exposure levels were w/w 0.00%, 0.05%, 0.10%, 0.15% and 0.20%. The graded doses were included in their diets. Serum from experimental animals was assayed for indicators of kidney function. The parameters were alkaline phosphatase, urea, creatinine, glucose, total protein and albumin. All the biochemical indicators increased significantly (P<0.05) with increasing concentration of crude oil. Morphologically, a marked reduction in size of the kidneys was observed. The mean weight of the kidneys in the control was 11.41g + 0.84 and decreased from 9.31g + 0.25 to 6.47g + 0.55 with increasing dietary concentration of crude oil. Histological examination revealed that there were eosinophilic casts in the lumen of the distal convoluted tubules. The Bowmans capsule was dilated and contain some loose eosinophilic casts. Eosinophilia was also observed in some sections of the kidneys. It is concluded that crude oil is nephrotoxic in rabbits and may probably result to kidney failure.

Nigerian Veterinary Journal Vol.25(2) 2004: 19-26