Histological Study of the Effect of Di (2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate (DEHP) on the Adrenal Cortex of Adult Male Albino Rat and the Possible Protective Role of Ginseng

Introduction: Phthalates are widely spread environmental contaminants because of their use in plastics and other common consumer products. Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is the most abundant phthalate in the environment. Ginseng enhances adrenal gland function and improves physical performance, promotes vitality and increases resistance to stress, aging and oxidants. Aim of the Work: The purpose of the present study was to study the histological effect of DEHP and Panax ginseng on the adrenal cortex. Materials and Methods: Forty adult male albino rats were used and were divided into four main groups (10 animals each); a control group, Panax ginseng treated group which received 3.6 mg/rat of Panax ginseng orally once daily for 4 weeks, DEHP treated group which received 2.85 mg/kg body weight of DEHP orally once daily for 4 weeks and the fourth group received a combination of daily ginseng and DEHP for 4 weeks. Specimens of adrenal cortex were processed for histological study by light and electron microscopes. Results: In DEHP treated rats, the cells of the three cortical zones, showed apparent increase in the cytoplasmic vacuolation and irregular darkly stained nuclei. Ultrastructurally, degenerative changes were observed in the cortical cells especially in the zona fasciculata in the form of cytoplasamic vacuolation, mitochondrial degeneration and increased lipid droplets. When Panax ginseng was added most of the morphological changes were resolved to be more or less similar to the control group. Conclusions: DEHP had a toxic effect on adrenal cortex which could be resolved by concomitant administration of Panax ginseng. So, it is advised to give ginseng to those exposed to DEHP especially in industries.