Chronic Exposure to Extremely Low Frequency Electromagnetic Field Induces Mild Renal Damages in Rats

The kidney is a major potential route for the absorption of hazardous materials encountered in the environment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of ELFEMF on function and structure of kidney in rats. Experimental adult male Wistar rats were exposed to a 50 Hz ELFEMF, 1 mT (emitted from solenoid) for 24 h daily during 135 days. The sham rats were subjected to sham exposure and the control rats were kept in animal room. In final, blood samples collected for the determination of the creatinine, urea nitrogen, albumin, globulin and total protein concentration in the plasma. The kidney was examined using light microscopy. Results showed that in EMF exposed group plasma concentration of creatinine and urea nitrogen was increased (p<0.001) which was accompanied by marked vascular congestion in the renal cortex and reduction in red blood cell count in glomerular capillaries but there were no changes in total protein, albumin and globulin levels. In conclusion, long term exposure to ELFEMF impacts renal function by influencing the perfusion of kidney.