Some liver function indicators in guinea pigs injected with cyanide

To determine the lethal effect of cyanide poisoning on the liver cells using ALP, AST, ALT and Bilirubin (Total and Conjugated) as test indicators, eighteen (18) male guinea pigs, age matched were used for this study. This included 12 guinea pigs which served as test groups and injected with different concentrations of potassium cyanide saline solution while 6 guinea pigs without cyanide injection served as control group. Blood samples were collected from the guinea pigs three hours after the injections of the cyanide saline solution. The blood samples were analysed for liver enzymes and bilirubin using standard methods. The result of the plasma AST and ALT at the different concentrations showed decreased levels which were significant when compared with the controls. The plasma levels of Total and Conjugated bilirubin were also significantly decreased when compared with controls. However, the levels of the ALP in both test and control groups showed no significant difference. This study therefore highlighted the need to determine the levels of these liver function indicators in cases of cyanide poisoning to ensure efficient management of patients who are exposed to the cyanide. © 2013 Sjournals. All rights reserved.