Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are widely distributed in the environment, and some are carcinogenic to human beings. The study of biomarkers has helped clarify the nature and magnitude of the human health risks posed by such substances. This article provides a review of the state-of-the-art on PAH biomarkers for human health risk assessment and also discusses their applicability within the context of environmental management in Brazil. The article discusses the methodologies for determination of some biomarkers such as 1-hydroxypyrene and PAH-DNA adducts. Cytogenetic markers, frequency of chromosomal aberrations, and micronucleus induction were considered for the evaluation of cancer risk. The current stage of studies on validation of such biomarkers was also approached.

HPA -Hidrocarbonetos Policíclicos Aromáticos lDso -dose letal para 50% da população teste lO EC -menor concentração com efeitos observáveis lOEl -menor nível de efeitos observados MPlmaximum permissible leveI NAS -National Academy of Sciences NEl ou NOELno effect leveI Nlnegligible leveI NOECno effect concentration OMS -Organização Mundial da Saúde PECpredicted environmental concentration PNECpredicted no effect concentration