Biochemical, histopathological and morphological alterations in the kidneys of wistar rats following exposure to X-ray film developer solutions

Radiographers and darkroom staff in developing countries engaged in darkroom radiography are often exposed to
x-ray film processing chemicals including the developer. The possible effects of the developer have not been
investigated to the best of our knowledge. This study was aimed at investigating the effects of x-ray film developer
on the kidneys of wistar rats by assessing the alterations in serum urea and serum creatinine levels and the
histological features. The study covered a period of 30 days and utilized 18 apparently healthy wistar rats of 16-20
weeks and weighing between 200 and 210g. The rats were randomly divided into three (3) groups-A-C, of 6 rats
each. Groups A and B were the experimental groups exposed to varying concentrations of developer solutions for
periods ranging from 15-30 days. Group C served as the control group exposed to no developer solution. At each
desired period of time, two rats were randomly selected from each group, painlessly sacrificed, the kidneys
harvested and blood sample collected and examine/analyzed at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital,
Nnewi Anambra State. Results showed raised serum urea and creatinine levels which were independent of the
concentration of the developer solution in the first 15 days but concentration dependent at longer exposures.
Varying histological changes were also observed, including distortion of tissue interstitial architecture, hypertrophy
of the Bowman’s capsule, infiltrating cell oedema and signs of necrosis. These changes point to the risks radiology
workers face in the discharge of their professional duties.