Teratogenic effects of ethanol vapour exposure on chick embryos.

OBJECTIVE To observe the effect of ethanol vapours on chick embryos regarding developmental defects and hatchability characteristics. METHODS An experimental study was performed in the Department of Anatomy at the Regional Center of College of Physicians and Surgeons, Islamabad, from February, 2006 to February, 2007. Chicken eggs after having been exposed to ethanol vapours produced in a specially designed glass chamber, were dissected on day 7, day 10 and day 22 or on hatching and compared with age-matched controls. A breathalyzer was used for monitoring level of ethanol vapours inside the incubator. RESULTS The results show that experimental group had comparatively more cases of delayed and assisted hatchings as well as growth retardation resulting into failure of retraction of yolk sac, as compared to the controls. CONCLUSION Ethanol vapour exposure increases the risks of developmental defects with increasing embryonic age. Increased duration of exposure, causes delayed hatching and more assisted hatchings. Newly hatched alcohol exposed chicks showed diminished locomotor activity and poor balance.