Comparative Pulmonary Toxicity of PMS and Kerosene Fumes in a Rat Model

Abstract

This study investigated the sub-chronic effects of inhaled Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and kerosene fumes on pulmonary histology and physiology in albino rats. Fifteen adult male rats were randomly assigned to three groups: control (fresh air), PMS-exposed, and kerosene-exposed. Exposures were conducted for six hours daily over five weeks. Body and lung weights were recorded, and histopathological analysis of lung tissues was performed using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Compared to controls (body weight: 203 ± 0.96 g; lung weight: 5.72 ± 0.63 g), both exposed groups showed significant reductions in body and lung weights. The kerosene-exposed group had a mean body weight of 137 ± 2.08 g and lung weight of 4.53 ± 0.56 g (p < 0.05), while the PMS-exposed group had a mean body weight of 145 ± 2.09 g and lung weight of 4.83 ± 0.58 g (p < 0.05). Histologically, controls exhibited normal lung architecture. Kerosene exposure resulted in mild inflammation, whereas PMS exposure caused severe emphysematous changes characterized by alveolar wall destruction and cystic space formation. These findings demonstrate that sub-chronic inhalation of PMS and kerosene fumes induces significant systemic and pulmonary toxicity, with PMS exerting more pronounced structural damage to lung tissue. The results highlight the potential respiratory health risks associated with chronic exposure to petroleum fumes, particularly in occupational and domestic settings with poor ventilation.