The effects of desflurane on male rat reproductive hormones, testicular tissue, and sperm morphology: An experimental study

Abstract Background: Desflurane is a widely used inhalational anesthetic known for its advantageous properties in clinical settings. This study aimed to investigate the effects of desflurane inhalation on male reproductive hormones, testicular tissue integrity, and sperm morphology in a rat model. Methods: Thirty male rats were allocated into six experimental groups: Control group: Administered 2 L/min of O₂ for 18 minutes daily over seven days. Group 1: Exposed to 1 minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of desflurane and 2 L/min of O₂ for 18 minutes daily over seven days. Group 2: Received the same treatment as Group 1 for seven days, followed by a seven-day recovery period without intervention. Group 3: Administered 1 MAC desflurane and 2 L/min of O₂ for 18 minutes daily over 14 days. Group 4: Received the same treatment as Group 3 for 14 days, followed by a seven-day recovery period without intervention. Group 5: Administered the same treatment as Group 3 for 14 days, followed by a 14-day recovery period without intervention. Biochemical analyses were conducted to measure serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and inhibin B. Histopathological evaluations were performed to assess testicular tissue integrity, and sperm morphology was examined to identify abnormalities. Results: Significant histopathological damage was observed in all experimental groups compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The proportion of morphologically abnormal spermatozoa was significantly higher in Groups D2, D3, D4, and D5 compared to the control group (p = 0.030, p = 0.002, p < 0.001, and p = 0.016, respectively). Serum levels of FSH, LH, testosterone, and inhibin B exhibited statistically significant alterations across all experimental groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Chronic inhalation of desflurane, a modern inhalational anesthetic, was found to adversely affect testicular histology, sperm morphology, and the regulation of male reproductive hormones in rats. These findings highlight potential reproductive toxicity associated with prolonged desflurane exposure.