CHANGES IN TESTICULAR MORPHOLOGY IN EXPERIMENTAL CARBOXYHEMOGLOBINEMIA

Abstract

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas. It is produced during incomplete combustion processes (e.g., when fuel is burned). CO has a binding affinity to hemoglobin that is 200–250 times greater than that of oxygen.Toxic effects:CO binds to hemoglobin, forming carboxyhemoglobin (COHb), which significantly reduces the blood’s ability to transport oxygen. As a result, hypoxia (oxygen deficiency) develops. Consequences of hypoxia: Hypoxia leads to damage to the nervous system, cardiovascular system, and other vital organs.Long-term effects:Studies conducted in South Korea have shown that the long-term risk of mortality after CO poisoning increases by 2.6 times. There is also an elevated risk of developing:infectious diseases,cancers,endocrine system disorders,neurological problems,cardiovascular diseases,respiratory system disorders.Neurological and cardiac symptoms may persist for an extended period.Main treatment method — oxygen therapy.The patient must be moved to fresh air immediately and provided with oxygen via a mask. In severe cases, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is used, which helps accelerate the elimination of CO from the body.If neurological or cardiovascular symptoms are present, further medical examination and treatment are required.