A Critical Review of the Literature on Nitrobenzene Toxicity

Abstract

This literature review encompassing information available through 1980 and limited coverage in 1981, emphasizes results useful in assessing the potential toxic effects of nitrobenzene to man. Nitrobenzene exposure in man or experimental animals is most often associated with methemoglobinemia. Histopathologic changes also are observed in the hemato-lymphoreticular system, central nervous system, and liver. In addition, lesions have been reported in adrenals and testes. No information was found on carcinogenic or teratogenic potential, fertility, or reproductive effects of nitrobenzene. Results from Ames Salmonella assay are negative but test procedures are questionable; metabolites give positive results. Metabolism of nitrobenzene involves either oxidation or reduction yielding p-aminophenol and p-nitrophenol, and other reduced intermediates. From the foregoing, several aspects of nitrobenzene toxicity have been identified which warrant further study. Recommendations are made for chronic and subchronic exposure of test animals via inhalation to assess various toxicological endpoints. In addition, the relationship of nitrobenzene metabolism to its toxicity needs to be established. Genotoxic effects of nitrobenzene also need study.

Two-Week Oral Toxicity Study of 1,4-Dichloro-2-Nitrobenzene in Rats and Mice

“…Since the methemoglobin level was increased in both rats and mice, the DCNB-induced methemoglobinemia can not be totally ruled out. However, the DCNB-induced increase in the methemoglobin level was only marginal, compared with a reported increase in the methemoglobin level from 5% to 16% in rats and rabbits exposed to o-and pchloronitrobenzenes [24][25][26] , and from 33% to 58% in rats exposed to nitrobenzene 27) . Hematopoiesis and hemosiderosis in the spleen and decreases in RBC, Hb and Ht after exposure of rats to o-and p-chloronitrobenzenes were reported 25,26) , whereas such accompanying histopathological changes did not occur in the present study.…”

Simultaneous electrochemical determination of nitrophenol isomers with the polyfurfural film modified glassy carbon electrode

“…For example, these compounds would cause severe diseases e.g., methemoglobinemia, fervescence, headaches, drowsiness, nausea to human and animals [4][5][6][7]; and they are also hazardous to plants, for instance, 0.7 mmol L -1 of nitrophenol in irrigating water will result in the reduction of output [8]. Moreover, nitrophenol isomers are widely applied in the chemical synthesis of dyes, pesticides, and explosive materials [8][9][10], and they are not only detected in soil, but also in aquatic environment due to their high stability and solubility in water [10][11][12][13].…”

Visible Light-driven Photoelectrochemical Determination of p-Nitrophenol Based on CdSe Quantum Dots and DNA Composite Film Modified Electrode

“…16,17 Particularly, PNP interacting with DNA leads to significant damage to the health of human being. 18 However, the presence of a nitro group in PNP causes this aromatic compound to experience a strong chemical stability and resistance to microbial degradation. 19,20 Therefore, monitoring and controlling the level of PNP in waste, drinking and surface waters have always been an important task regarding environmental protection.…”