Benzene has been shown to cause chromosome changes in bone marrow cells in the lab. (The bone marrow is where new blood cells are made.) Such changes are commonly found in human leukemia cells.

How Does benzene cause aplastic anemia?

The mechanism of benzene-induced aplastic anaemia remains unclear, but is likely to involve: (a) metabolism of benzene in the liver; (b) transport of metabolites to the marrow and their secondary activation to toxic quinones and free radicals by peroxidase enzymes; (c) induction of apoptosis, DNA damage and altered …

What are benzene pathways of exposure?

Main Routes of Exposure: Inhalation. Skin contact. Eye contact. Inhalation: Can irritate the nose and throat.

When was benzene classified as a carcinogen?

Benzene has been classified as carcinogenic to humans (IARC group 1) since 1979, on the basis of sufficient evidence that it causes leukaemia.

How is benzene formed?

Benzene is prepared from ethyne by the process of cyclic polymerization. In this process, Ethyne is passed through a red-hot iron tube at 873 K. The ethyne molecule then undergoes cyclic polymerization to form benzene.

How does benzene affect cells?

Benzene works by causing cells not to work correctly. For example, it can cause bone marrow not to produce enough red blood cells, which can lead to anemia. Also, it can damage the immune system by changing blood levels of antibodies and causing the loss of white blood cells.

How does benzene affect the bone marrow?

Benzene causes harmful effects on the bone marrow and can cause a decrease in red blood cells, leading to anemia. It can also cause excessive bleeding and can affect the immune system, increasing the chance for infection.

How does benzene act on the central nervous system?

Animal studies provide additional support that benzene affects the nervous system following acute inhalation and oral exposures, albeit at extremely high acute exposure levels. Effects reported include narcosis, nervous system depression, tremors, and convulsions.

What methods are used to measure benzene exposure in the workplace?

There are a number of methods available for monitoring employee exposures to benzene. The sampling and analysis may be performed by collection of the benzene vapor or charcoal absorption tubes, with subsequent chemical analysis by gas chromatography.

What is the main route of absorption of benzene?

Inhalation exposure is the major route of exposure to benzene, although oral and dermal exposure routes are also important. The toxicokinetics (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination) of benzene have been studied in humans and experimental animal species.

What are the hazards of benzene?

Potential health effects from exposure to Benzene include, but are not limited to:

  • Dizziness.
  • Weakness.
  • Unconsciousness.
  • Lung inflammation.
  • Vomiting.
  • Nausea.
  • Gastrointestinal upset.
  • Eye irritation.

Is benzene harmful to the environment?

Benzene can be found in items that we use every day, such as glue and cleaning products. It is a dangerous, poisonous substance, and research shows that it can be harmful to us as well as to animals, plants, and the environment.