A Histological Study on The Short-Term Effect of Kerosene and Diesel Exposure on the Olfactory Epithelium of Wistar Rats

Abstract

Exposure to kerosene and diesel, which are environmental contaminants, is mainly via inhalation. Adverse effects of kerosene and diesel on parts of the respiratory system have been reported. There is, however, limited data on their effects on the olfactory epithelium. This study aimed to determine and compare the effect of short-term inhalation of kerosene and diesel on the olfactory epithelium of Wistar rats. Fifteen (15) Wistar rats weighing 120-150g were divided into three (3) groups (n=5). Group 1 (control) was not exposed. Groups 2 and 3 were placed in different inhalation chambers with a beaker containing 500mls of kerosene (group 2) and 500 mls of diesel (group 3). Groups 2 and 3 were exposed for 1hour daily for 21 days. Histopathological examination of the olfactory epithelium was conducted and blood samples were analyzed to determine the levels of SOD, MDA, and CAT. Thinning of the olfactory epithelium in group 2 and loss of the olfactory epithelial lining in group 3 was observed after exposure. A decrease in SOD (p>0.05) was observed in group 2 (0.39±0.04) and group 3 (0.31±0.06), while an increase in MDA (p>0.05) was observed in group 2 (0.58±0.26) and group 3 (0.67±0.44). A decrease in CAT (p>0.05) was observed in group 2 (2.87±0.49) and group 3 (2.50±0.16) after exposure. Short-term exposure to kerosene and diesel adversely affects the structure of the olfactory epithelium in Wistar rats.