Leukocytic Response and Spleen Morphology of Albino Rats Exposed to Graded Levels of Lead Acetate

Aim. The study investigated the leukocytic response and spleen morphology of albino rats exposed to graded dose levels of lead acetate. Material and Methods. Four groups of 5 rats received lead acetate treatment per os for 14 days, as follows: group A (0.25 mg/kg body weight), group B (0.50 mg/kg body weight), group C (1.00 mg/ kg body weight) and group D (no lead acetate treatment-control). Thereafter, total leukocyte count (TLC), differential leukocyte count (DLC) and histomorphology of the spleen were assessed. Total leukocyte count, differential leukocyte count and histomorphology of rats that received the lead acetate treatment were compared to control rats. Results. Results have shown that the administration of lead acetate to rats led to a significant (p < 0.05) increase in TLC with an increase in the number of lymphocytes (p < 0.05). The number of absolute monocytes and neutrophils in the lead acetate exposed rats were significantly (p < 0.05) low. The microscopic changes from the spleen sections of the lead acetate treated rats suggest immune alteration and splenic damage. Conclusion. Therefore the study confirms the risk of experiencing immunosuppression for humans and other species that may be exposed to lead.