The information available on the biological activity of hydrogen sulfide has been examined for present status of critical results pertaining to the toxicity of hydrogen sulfide. This review of the literature is intended as an evaluative report rather than an annotated bibliography of all the source material examined on hydrogen sulfide. The information was selected as it might relate to potential toxic effects of hydrogen sulfide to man and summarized, noting information gaps that may require further investigation. Several recommendations are listed for possible consideration for either toxicological research or additional short- and long-term tests. Two bibliographies have been provided to assist in locating references considered in this report: (1) literature examined but not cited and (2) reference citations. The majority of the references in the first bibliography were considered peripheral information and less appropriate for inclusion in this report.

A detailed literature review of human and animal toxicity studies of acrolein is presented, and information gaps identified that call for further investigation. Specific recommendations are suggested for additional short-/long-term studies, including chemical disposition and cytogenetic investigations. Two bibliographies are provided indicating the scope of the review: (1) literature actually cited and (2) literature examined but not included.