Toluene-induce changes in lung tissue and white blood cells

Introduction: Toluene (C7H8), an aromatic constituent of petroleum, is mainly used as a chemical solvent in industry. Given the harmful effects of toluene on the environment, the present study aimed to investigate its effects on lungs and blood. Material and Methods: Thirty mature mice were randomly divided into three groups of treatment 1, treatment 2 and sham. Treatment group 1 and 2 received 0.1 ml toluene 1700 mg/kg bw, and 1000 mg/kg bw, respectively for 25 days. After weighting, lung tissue and blood parameters were studied macroscopically and microscopically using Mutic software. Result: The percentage of neutrophils reduced and the number of degenerated lymphocytes and other leukocytes increased in the treatment group 1. The mean thickness of bronchial walls, the overall diameter of terminal bronchioles, respiratory bronchioles, and the thickness of the alveolar septa improved in treatment group 2. Furthermore, pneumocytes type 1increased and pneumocytes type2 decreased. The difference between treatment group 1 and treatment group 2, and the difference between sham group and the treatment groups were significant for all the above-mentioned parameters (P<0.05). Conclusion: Toluene changed the percentage of white blood cells, increases the thickness and diameter of lung parameters, caused inflammation and constriction of alveoli, and hence weakened respiratory system and reduced its performance. These effects are dose-dependent, so higher concentrations of toluene cause much more damage.