Bone Changes in Experimental Chronic Cadmium Poisoning

Abstract

To clarify the relationship between chronic cadmium poisoning and bone abnormalities, male Wistar rats were separated into eight groups given eight different synthetic diets. After four weeks of these dietary regimens the rats were killed and examined roentgenographically. Muscles and bones were removed and analyzed for cadmium, calcium, magnesium, and zinc. The most remarkable x-ray finding was the abnormal curvature of the spinal column. Cervicodorsal lordosis and dorsolumbar kyphosis as well as scoliosis increased markedly in rats fed a low-protein, calcium- deficient, and cadmium-added diet. Cad- mium levels increased and magnesium and zinc levels decreased in bones of cadmium-dosed groups. Calcium levels än red muscle (soleus) and white muscle (gastrocnemius) were significantly elevated in rats on a low-protein, calcium-deficient, and cadmium-added diet.