Effects of Acute Fenthion Toxicity on Liver and Kidney Function and Histology in Rats

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the dose-related effects of fenthion on the liver and kidney and the correlation between severity of organ damage and serum butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) enzyme levels. Materials and Methods: Ninety rats were randomly subdivided into control group and 4 study groups. Control group was administered 1 ml of saline intraperitoneally. Study groups received 25, 50, 75 and 100 mg/kg of fenthion, intraperitoneally. Blood samples and renal and hepatic tissues were collected 24 h after dosing and survival was monitored for 7 days. Results: Mortality was observed in 2 rats receiving 75 mg/kg fenthion and in 3 rats receiving 100 mg/kg fenthion within 2 days of the experiment. There was a correlation between the fenthion dosage and increase in the blood levels of liver enzyme, creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Plasma BChE enzyme levels in rats receiving 75 and 100 mg/kg fenthion were statistically lower compared to rats receiving 25-50 mg/kg fenthion at 24 h. Histopathologic examination of the liver and kidney indicated a significant injury only in rats receiving 100 mg/kg fenthion. Conclusion: The organophosphate fenthion, particularly at high dosage, has a toxic effect on the liver and kidney and its toxicity is correlated with BChE enzyme levels