Estimation of Some Heavy Metals Residues in Blood Serum and Tissues of Camels

Abstract

A total of 75 samples of serum, muscles, lungs, livers and kidneys of slaughtered camels (15 of each) were collected from Banha abattoir in Kalubia Governorate and they were analyzed for the presence of heavy metals (Lead, Cadmium, Copper and Zinc) by using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The obtained results indicated that the mean values of Lead concentrations in the examined samples of serum, muscle, lung, liver and kidney were 0.014 μg/ml, 0.107, 0.81, 0.66 and 0.57 mg/kg wet weight respectively. Results showed that mean concentrations of lead in lungs and livers were significantly higher (p≤0.05) than that reported in kidneys and muscles. However, the mean values of Cadmium concentrations in the examined samples of serum, muscle, lung, liver and kidney were 0.007 μg/ml, 0.07, 0.39, 0.52 and 1.28 mg/kg wet weight respectively. Significant differences (p≤0.05) in the mean concentrations of cadmium were recorded between the studied tissues as the highest mean concentration was reported in the kidneys, then in the livers, while the muscles contained the minimum mean concentration. Meanwhile, the mean values of Copper concentrations in the examined samples of serum, muscle, lung, liver and kidney were 1.29 μg/ml, 1.37, 2.75, 3.94 and 3.25 mg/kg wet weight respectively. Significant differences (p≤0.05) in the mean concentrations of Copper were recorded between the studied tissues as the highest mean concentration was reported in the liver. Whereas, the mean values of Zinc concentrations in the examined samples of serum , muscle, lung, liver and kidney were 1.96 μg /ml, 16.94, 10.68, 22.22 and 8.43 mg/kg wet weight respectively. Significant differences (p≤0.05) in the mean concentrations of Zinc were recorded between the studied tissues as the highest mean concentration was reported in the liver and muscles. All examined heavy metals were within the normal level in serum. Generally, lungs, livers and kidneys were found to have the highest significant levels of Pb and Cd and muscles the lowest levels.