ABSTRACT
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To evaluate histopathological alterations of the liver and kidney of female rats exposed to low doses of DM and its potential genotoxic activity.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Female Wistar rats were randomly assigned to control (3 groups, 6 rats in each) and treatment groups (3 groups, 6 rats in each). They were subjected to subcutaneous injections of DM (at doses of 0.003, 0.03, and 0.3 mg/kg bw/d) after 30, 45, and 60 d, respectively.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Significant alterations were recorded in liver parenchyma induced by hepatic vacuolization, fragmented chromatin in nuclei, dilatation of sinusoids and congestions. Lesions within proximal and distal tubules were observed in the kidneys. Tissue congestions and severe alterations within glomeruli were visible. DM as a pyrethroid insecticide induced significant increase (P≤0.05) of plasma MDA concentrations after 45 d. A significant increase (P≤0.05) in plasma ALT (after 45 and 60 d) and AST (after 60 d) concentrations was recorded as compared to controls. During the whole experimental period the toxic agent provoked significant DNA damages (P≤0.05), especially in the dominance of classes 3 and 4 of obtained comet.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>DM even at a very low dose displays harmful effects by disrupting hepatic and renal function and causing DNA damages in puberscent female rats. Low doses of DM are hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic.</p>