Revista OMICS de Radiologia

Abstrato

Effects of Repetitive Static Magnetic Field Exposure on Serum Electrolytes and Histology of Certain Tissues of Swiss Albino Rats

Omer SA, Sulieman A, Ayad CE, Osman HM, Abdulrahman MA and Saeed AM

Background: Due to the recent developments in electronic technology, daily exposure to strong static magnetic fields (SMF) is increasing. In particular is the increasing use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for medical diagnoses. The intensity of SMF used at MRI due to development of MRI systems is increasing. Such strong-SMF exposure may have potential health hazards. Objectives: This experimental study aims to evaluate the effects of repetitive exposure to SMF on serum Na+, K+, and Ca++ concentrations. Methods: Fifty-three Albino rats were included in this study classified to 4 experimental groups that involved 4 different protocols of exposure to SMF. Blood samples were obtained from retro orbital venous sinus after exposing the rats to SMF (1.5 T) for 1 hour on day 1 (group 1), day 3 (group 2) and day 7 (group 3), then after 4 weeks from day 7 (group 4). The level of Na+, K+, and Ca++ were measured. The results were compared with blood samples taken pre- exposure, referred to as a control group results. The brain, spleen, liver, kidney, lung, pancreas, intestine, and muscle were dissected out and kept in formalin for histological study. Results: There was an increase in serum K+ concentration and a decrease in serum Na+ concentration after exposure in all groups. Serum Ca++ level fluctuated with a decrease in the groups 1 and 4 and an increase in the group 2. Various histological changes were observed in all tissues. Conclusions: The obtained results indicated that MRI techniques are potentially hazardous and affect electrolytes.