A model for the study of skeletal anomalies in rat fetuses

The aim of this study was to validate a model of skeletal anomalies in rat fetuses by the administration of ketoconazole (80 mg/kg) to pregnant rats during organogenesis. Bones of the head, trunk and anterior and posterior limbs were examined for detection of anomalies. Statistical differences regarding the number of fetuses and postimplantation resorptions, and fetal and placental weight were significant. The frequency of skeletal anomalies in the head, trunk, and anterior and posterior limbs in the ketoconazole-treated group were also significant when compared to the control group. It could be concluded that the model suggested was valid for study of skeletal anomalies and abnormal bones development in rat fetuse, in spite of the loss of fetuses due to resorptions.