General Health Effects of Prolonged Exposure to 3,3',4,4'-Tetrachloroazo Benzene and 3,3',4,4'-Tetrachloroazoxybenzene in Rats

Abstract

3,3',4,4'-Tetrachloroazobenzene (TCAB) and 3,3',4',4'-tetrachloroazoxybenzene (TCAOB) are formed as contaminants during the industrial manufacturing of chloroanilide herbicides. Changes in the general body health status were evaluated in rats fed an experimental diet containing 100 ppm of TUB or TCAOB for 120 days. A significant difference in body weight between experimental and control animals was observed. Of all major organs examined at necropsy, liver, spleen and testis weight were affected. Induction of hepatic drugaetabolizing enzymes was observed. Hematological studies indicated a definite reduction in the number of erythrocytes among TCAOB treated rats. Various parameters of serum clinical chenistry were subsequently determined. The total lipids and glutamic-oxalacetic transaminase in exposed animals were found to be elevated. Results obtained in this study coupled with our earlier findings on carcinogenicity indicate that occupational exposure to TCAB and TCAOB may cause adverse human health effects.