The effect of Dichlorvous (Sniper) Inhalation on the Histology of the Lungs of Adult Male Wistar Rats

Abstract

The organophosphate, dichlorvous (Otapia-pia) formulated in varying concentrations as insecticides is utilized by several individuals in most remote places of Nigeria due to its affordable value and accessibility. However, this present study is conducted to investigate the adverse effect of the exposure of this substance on the respiratory system (lungs) of male albino wistar rats. Twenty (20) albino wistar rats comprising of all males weighing between 150-230g were divided into four groups (A-D) of five animals each. Group A received only water, feed, and served as the control. Group B was exposed to dichlorvous inhalation 3hrs daily for a period of two weeks; Group C was exposed to dichlorvous inhalation 6hrs daily for a period of two weeks; while Group D was exposed to dichlorvous inhalation 10hrs daily for a period of two weeks. Twenty four hours after the last exposure, the animals were sacrificed by cervical dislocation and dissected. The lungs were weighed and fixed in 10% formal saline for histological studies. The body weight of the experimental groups decreased insignificantly when compared with the control group. The lungs weight increased significantly when compared to the control groups. Histological observation revealed a moderate to severe effects on the lungs with severe consolidated inflammatory exudates (discharge of fluids from pores), a moderate intra-alveoli hemorrhage, and a severe dilation of alveolar septa which is evident as emphysematous changes. This result revealed that the exposure to dichlorvous causes distortion of the normal histological architecture of the lungs. Thus, showing that dichlorvous inhalation influences the normal physiologic mechanisms of the lungs.