Biochemical, histopathological and ultra structural profile after pulsed water medication of enrofloxacin in broiler chickens

Aim: A pharmacological study was undertaken to evaluate the safety and adverse effects of enrofloxacin administration in broiler chickens by assessing the serum biochemical parameters, associated histopathological and ultra structural changes in liver and kidney. Materials and Methods: Birds in the treatment group were administered with enrofloxacin at the recommended therapeutic dose 10mg/kg body weight via drinking water for five successive days, while the control group (untreated group) received non medicated water. Serum biochemical parameters viz., total protein, albumin, lactate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, creatine kinase, lipase, triglyceride, gamma glutamyl transferase, urea, uric acid and creatinine were estimated at 24hour and 48hour intervals during the dosing and withdrawal periods, respectively. Liver and kidney tissue samples collected from 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 days post treatment groups were subjected to histopathological and ultrastructural examinations. Results: There was no significant change (p>0.05) in total protein, albumin, lactate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, creatine kinase, lipase, triglyceride and urea levels in the enrofloxacin administered broiler chickens at all the time points evaluated. However, a significant increase (p<0.05) in gamma glutamyl transferase, uric acid and creatinine levels were th observed after the 4 dose of the enrofloxacin and on day 1 post treatment. During the withdrawal period, the elevated levels declined gradually and showed the trend towards control values as evidenced by a statistically insignificant difference on 3, 5, 7 and 9 days post treatment when compared to that of control group. These biochemical changes were substantiated by histopathological and ultrastructural changes elicited in liver and kidney. Conclusion: The reversible trend observed in serum biochemical parameters, histopathological and ultra structural alterations in liver and kidney during the withdrawal period suggests that enrofloxacin is safe if administered to broiler chickens at the recommended therapeutic dose and if the stipulated withdrawal period is strictly adhered to.