Distribution and elimination of Hexachlorobenzene (Hcb) after single oral exposure in japanese quail (coturnix coturnix japonica)

Abstract

The distribution and excretion of hexachlorobenzene (HCB) after administration to quails of a single oral dose of 4.5 microCi [14C] HCB per 100 g body weight was studied by whole-body autoradiography and liquid scintillation counting. Radiolabeled HCB was distributed throughout the body in 2 h. Peak levels were found 4-8 d after administration, with the highest concentrations in the subcutaneous and abdominal fat, uropygial gland, bone marrow, adrenals, ovarian stroma, and liver, in that order. After 3 wk, substantial amounts of radiolabeled substance were present only in the adipose tissue and the uropygial gland. The main routes of excretion were the egg yolk, uropygial gland, and bile. About 75% of the administered dose was excreted through the egg yolk and about 25% in the feces.