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Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology 1983; 30(4): 388-393.

Fluoride-Induced Haematological Changes In Rabbits

Susheela AK, Jain SK

ABSTRACT: The effects of fluoride (16984488) ingestion on blood profiles were investigated in rabbits. Female rabbits were given 10 milligrams per kilogram sodium-fluoride (7681494) intragastrically daily for 6 or 12 months. Blood cell counts and hemoglobin content were determined both for these females at 6 and 12 months and for their offspring at 5 months of age. Blood plasma fluoride concentrations were determined. Results were compared with those from controls not exposed. Body weights of treated rabbits were approximately 10 percent higher in fluoride treated animals than controls. Both erythrocytes and leukocytes were significantly reduced after 6 and 12 months of fluoride ingestion; however, young animals born to exposed females revealed no deviation in either parameter. Lymphocytes were reduced in 6 and 12 month treated mothers and their offspring. Basophils were 33 percent of normal in both treated groups and in their young. Thrombocytes, monocytes, and neutrophils were all reduced at 6 months, but showed some recovery at 12 months with values in the offspring approaching normal. Blood hemoglobin was significantly reduced in all three experimental groups: controls, 14.68 grams per deciliter (g/dl); 6 months treatment, 10.18g/dl; 12 months treatment, 13.2g/dl; and offspring, 11.16g/dl. Blood plasma fluoride concentrations were 4 to 6 times normal in treated animals, but identical with controls in the young. The authors conclude that excessive fluoride ingestion exerts a toxic influence on the hematological profile of adult rabbits and has adverse influences on their young. Fluoride deposition may occur in the developing osseus tissues. Involvement of the adrenal cortex in fluoride intoxication is suggested.

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