Selenate- and selenomethionine-induced leukopenia in ICR female mice

The investigations reported here were conducted to gain a better understanding of the comparative toxicity of selenium. Sodium selenate and selenomethionine were administered to young adult ICR female mice. Peripheral leukocyte counts and ratios of agranulocyte (Ag) to granulocyte (G) leukocytes were determined from blood that was collected at regularly scheduled intervals. Data indicated that both forms of selenium induced a transient yet marked decrease in the number of circulating leukocytes (leukopenia) following serial injections (2 mg Se/kg/injection). The leukopenia was more extensive and of a greater duration for selenomethionine-treated mice. For selenate-injected animals the Ag/G ratio increased sharply while the ratio shift for selenomethionine-injected mice was significantly less. Data are interpreted in regard to the different possible modes of action of selenate and selenomethionine on peripheral leukocytes causing leukopenia and the variable Ag/G ratio values.