Reproductive Toxicology and Teratology of Abused Toluene

Abstract

Reproductive Toxicology and Teratology of Abused TolueneToluene is an organic solvent that is widely used by industry and is ubiquitous in our environment. As a result, exposure to solvents like toluene in workrelated settings (i.e., relatively constant, low-level exposures) or through inhalant abuse (i.e., relatively intermittent, high-level exposures) is increasing for many women of reproductive age. Evidence suggests that the risk for pregnancy problems, as well as developmental delays and neurobehavioral difficulties, is higher for the children of women who have been exposed to high concentrations of organic solvents during pregnancy than for those who have not. These risks appear to be higher in cases of abuse exposure to solvents such as toluene, particularly in comparison to the risk for teratogenic outcomes with occupational solvent exposure. Despite this, the reproductive toxicology and teratology following abuse of toluene and other inhalants remains under-investigated. This brief review describes the current state of our understanding of the reproductive and teratogenic risk of gestational toluene abuse. The data to date suggest that the high levels of toluene exposure typical with inhalant abuse are more detrimental to fetal development than typical occupational exposure, and preclinical paradigms can be beneficial for investigating the processes and risks of prenatal solvent exposure. While substantial research has been done on the reproductive effects of occupational exposures to organic solvents, more research is needed on the outcomes and mechanisms of exposures typical of inhalant abuse.

Effects of Gasoline Inhalation on Menstrual Characteristics and the Hormonal Profile of Female Petrol Pump Workers

“…Benzene is also known to reduce the release of estradiol prior to ovulation, as well as the release of FSH at the early follicular phase and the release of progesterone at the early luteal phase [16]. Toluene inhalation has been shown to increase the incidence of maternal and foetal morbidity and embryonic malformation [29], and this compound also reduces the hypothalamic level of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnGH) and the plasma level of gonadotropins [27]. In addition, xylene was shown to decrease plasma levels of progesterone and estradiol.…”

Occupational Chemical Exposures Among Cosmetologists: Risk of Reproductive Disorders

“…Organic solvents such as toluene have an affinity for lipid-rich tissues and readily cross the placental barrier (Bukowski, 2001). Little is known about the mechanisms of action for toluene; it is unclear how it is absorbed and distributed through the body (Hannigan & Bowen, 2010). …”

Long-Term Behavioral Consequences of Prenatal Binge Toluene Exposure in Adolescent Rats

“…Preliminary versions of the papers featuring this special issue were originally presented at the 4th Meeting of the International Drug Abuse Research Society (IDARS) held in Mexico City, April 15-19, 2013. developmental delays and neurobehavioral problems in children born to inhalant abusers [6,17,27,36].…”