Some Toxicological Effects of The Antibacterial Agent Triclosan on Adult Albino Rats

There has been growing concern about human and wildlife exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDC), commonly encountered chemicals that could disrupt endogenous hormone function. One of these EDC is triclosan (TCS). Triclosan is a synthetic, non-ionic, broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent, which possesses mostly antibacterial, but also antifungal and antiviral properties. Triclosan is incorporated into several products, including hand soaps and detergents and those of skin care and oral hygiene. Millions of consumers use cosmetic/personal care products and their ingredients on a daily basis.The aim of the present study is to investigate the toxic effects of TCS on the thyroid gland, testis, ovaries, liver and kidney of adult albino rats. This were done through determination of serum levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxin hormone (FT4), testosterone, estradiol (in female rats), liver enzymes [aspartate aminotransferase (AST) & alanine aminotransferase (ALT)], blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinin. In addition semen analysis was done. Moreover the previously mentioned organs were examined for histopathological changes.from the results of this study it can be concluded that:1- Triclosan administration in a dose of 200 mg/kg for 12 weeks has resulted in disturbance of the endocrinal balance in both male and female rats.2- Triclosan is hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic agent.3- These toxic effects were cumulative and time dependent.