THE EFFECT OF CARBON MONOXIDE ON THE HISTOLOGY OF CARDIAC TISSUES OF MALE WISTAR RATS.

ABSTRACT This study examined the effect of carbon monoxide from different sources common to our everyday use (charcoal and generator fumes) on the histology of cardiac tissues and serum oxidative stress markers on male Wistar rat. Twenty male Wistar rats with a weight range of 127-150 grams were used for the study. The rats were randomly divided into four groups of five rats each; the control group (group 1), charcoal group (group 2), generator group (group 3) and generator recuperation group (group 4). All these animals except group 1 and group 4 were exposed to carbon monoxide emanating from charcoal sourced from combustion of wood and generator fumes. CO dosage was recorded before and after combustion. Mean animal weight and oxidative stress markers were analyzed using standardized techniques. The result shows carbon monoxide inhalation from charcoal and generator which is commonly used in our environment cause mild to severe inflammation of the cardiac tissues with mild interstitial distortion when compared to the control group. The mean weight of the animals as well as the oxidative stress markers were found to be statistically insignificant. This study has shown carbon monoxide inhalation to have mild to severe effect on the histology of the heart with a statistically insignificant effect on the serum stress markers and mean weight of the animals.