Effects of RHAD on the Hematology, Biochemistry and Histology of the Spleen and Kidneys in Wistar Rats

The discharge of rice husk ash dust (RHAD) into the air by rice mills caused air pollution with health implications. This industrial process has resulted in various diseases including chronic obstructive respiratory system, rhinitis, cough etc. This study assessed the effects of RHAD exposure on haematological, biochemical and histology of the spleen and kidneys in Wistar rats. A total of 30 rats were grouped into six. Groups I, II, and III served as controls. Groups IV, V and VI served as treatments, exposed to the RHAD daily by inhalation for 14, 28 and 56 days, respectively. At the end of the experiment, the rats were sacrificed and blood samples collected for kidney function test and haematological parameters. Kidneys and spleen were harvested, processed and stained with H and E stains for light microscopy. Data obtained were analysed using statistical software (Graph Pad Prism, v.9). Alterations were observed in some differential leucocyte counts, total leucocyte count (TLC) and packed cell volume (PCV). Kidney serum proteins showed changes in urea and creatinine levels, histological changes, were also observed. Rice husk ash dust results in alterations of haematological, biochemical and histology of the spleen and kidney.

Key Words: Hematology, histology biochemistry spleen and Kidneys