Effects of Chronic Inhalation of Carbon Monoxide on Some Haematological Parameters and Carboxyhaemoglobin Levels in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Chronic exposure to carbon monoxide (CO) has been linked to various health issues, including alterations in blood parameters. This study aimed to investigate the effects of chronic inhalation of CO on haematological parameters and carboxyhaemoglobin levels in Wistar rats. Twenty healthy Wistar rats were acclimatized for 7 days and divided into four groups: Group A (control, no CO exposure), Group B (1-week exposure), Group C (2 weeks exposure), and Group D (3 weeks exposure). The rats in the exposure groups were placed in poorly ventilated cages with kerosene lanterns emitting CO. Blood samples were collected at the end of the exposure period for haematological analysis and carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb) measurement. Haematological parameters were analyzed using an automated haematology analyzer, and COHb levels were determined using spectrophotometry. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS, including one-way ANOVA and Pearson's correlation. Significant increases in haemoglobin (Hb), red blood cell (RBC) count, packed cell volume (PCV), and COHb levels were observed in the exposed groups compared to the control group (p<0.001). MCV showed a negative correlation with COHb (p=0.049), while Hb, RBC, PCV, and MCHC showed positive correlations (p<0.001 to p=0.015). No significant changes were observed in MCH (p=0.813). Chronic inhalation of CO significantly affects haematological parameters, with increased levels of Hb, RBC, PCV, and COHb. These changes highlight the potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to CO, emphasizing the need for effective mitigation strategies in environments with CO exposure.