Effects of Halothane and Chloroform on the Liver in Protein-Deficient Mice

Abstract

A single 45-minute exposure to halothane did not cause demonstrable pathological liver changes when administered to mice in an atmosphere of air or oxygen regardless of whether the diet was normal or low in protein. Similarly, increased inhaled oxygen tensions per se had no influence on liver changes. The well-known hepatotoxicity of chloroform was demonstrated in groups fed both regular and low protein diets. The animals tolerated the single chloroform anaesthesia less well than those receiving halothane with significant liver damage in both groups.

Fire-risk-free anaesthesia of rodents with halothane

“…There is a vast amount of literature on the toxicity of halothane, and evidence appears to be equally divided for and against its toxicity in various species (Wingard, Davis & Leonard, 1965;GUrtner, Kreutzberg, Schellenberger & Fischer, 1964). In man 11 hepatitis cases in 2 hospitals were recently attributed to multiple use of halothane (Sharpstone, Medley & Williams, 1971).…”