Ca-DTPA-induced fetal death and malformation in mice

Increased fetal mortality and congenital malformation were induced in mice by Ca-DTPA, a chelate widely used for the removal of internally deposited plutonium in human beings. Mated C57BL/Do female mice were given five daily injections of 720-2,880 mumol/kg Ca-DTPA during early, mid, or late gestation. Damage probably occurred as a result of the depletion by Ca-DTPA of zinc and manganese, trace elements essential to growth and development. By extension, it seems likely that Ca-DTPA could damage human fetuses. A much safer chelate, Zn-DTPA, is recommended for the treatment of accidental plutonium contamination.