Absorption of iron from the peritoneal cavity of rats

The purpose of this study was to determine absorption rate and toxicity of intraperitoneal iron in rats. Twelve (12) male S-D rats were divided into two groups. Group 1 was given 1.5% Dianeal containing 4 mg/L of iron as ferric chloride and group 2 was given standard 1.5% Dianeal. Preblood samples were obtained at the start of the experiment, and 25 mL of the designated dialysis solution was injected into the peritoneal cavity. Six hours after injecting the solution, the dialysate was drained and post-blood samples were obtained. A specimen for histological examination was taken from each rat at the end of the experiment. The iron concentrations of preserum, postserum, dialysis solution with and without added iron, and drained dialysate, were determined. No remarkable changes of serum iron concentration were observed with the six-hour cycle time. Sixty percent of the injected iron was absorbed. No acute toxicity to the peritoneum was observed.