Chromium induced teratogenicity in female rat

Exposure to chromium (VI) (250, 500 and 750 ppm as potassium dichromate) via drinking water pregestationally in rats revealed embryo- and fetotoxic effects in the form of a significant reduction in the number of implantations and number of fetuses. An increase in the number of resorptions, pre-implantation and post-implantation loss in chromium (VI)-treated mothers was also observed. No significant visceral abnormality was found. A significant increase in sub-dermal hemorrhagic patches on thoracic and abdominal areas was found. Skeletal abnormality in the form of reduced ossification in parietal, interparietal and caudal bones was found in the fetuses of chromium (VI)-treated mothers. Chromium levels in blood, placenta and fetuses were found to be significantly increased in the 500 ppm and 750 ppm dosed groups. The duration of estrus cycle was significantly altered after chromium (VI) exposure. This study suggests that chromium exposure in rat causes a lower degree of toxicity than in mice as observed in our earlier studies.