Ovuru, S.S., Berepubo

Blood cell profile among experimental rabbits associated with crude oil ingestion were evaluated and was significantly (P<0.05) altered. Erythrocytes decreased linearly (P<0.05) indicating an anemic condition. The decrease also affected dependable factors such as packed cell volume (PVC) and haemoglobin (Hb). Leukocyctes, the main defense cells of the animal decreased linearly (P<0.05) further indicating susceptibility of the animal to stress and infection. Granulolytic leukocytes, which include neutrophils and eosinophils increased linearly (P<0.05). This increase is a physiological response to stress. Lymphocytes, antibody forming leukocytes decreased linearly, indicating a response to stress and susceptibility of the animal to infection. Crude oil fraction present in the diet has serious consequences on hematological parameters in animals.

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Biochemical parameters in blood specimens obtained from semi-adult rabbits of both sexes fed crude oil contaminated diets were examined. The diets had crude oil inclusions of 0, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15 and 0.20%. Blood samples were obtained from the marginal ear vein of representatives in each treatment group and assayed for urea, creatinine, total bilirubin, conjugated bilirubin and cholesterol. There were significant differences (P < 0.05) in biochemical parameters between control and crude oil treated animals. The biochemical changes observed indicate that ingestion of crude oil fractions cause disturbances in kidney and hepatocytes.