Cyclophosphamide-induced multiple organ dysfunctions: unravelling of dose dependent toxic impact on biochemistry and histology

Background: Cyclophosphamide, an immunosuppressive alkylating agent, has been used against breast cancer, lymphoma and myeloid leukemia. Despite various therapeutic uses, its toxic impacts on multiple organs remains to be fully elucidated.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate dose dependent toxic impact of cyclophosphamide on liver, kidney, brain and testis emphasizing serum and tissue biochemical and histological alterations.

Materials and methods: Experimental design consisted of five groups of albino rats. Group 1-5 were administered vehicle for five consecutive days. On 6^th day, group 1 received vehicle only and termed as control; group 2-5 received cyclophosphamide through intraperitoneal route at the rate of 50, 100, 150 and 200 mg/kg dose, respectively. After 24 h of the last administration, rats were euthanised; serum and tissue biochemistry; histology, sperm count and its motility were performed.

Results: Serological, biochemical and histological indices exhibited dose dependent deviations from their regular status as a marker of toxicity in liver, kidney, brain and testis. Tukey's HSD post hoc test revealed maximum damage in multiple organs with 200 mg/kg dose of cyclophosphamide.