Acute Toxicity in Rats of Chlorinated Hydrocarbons Given via the Intratracheal Route

Abstract
1 The approximate lethal dose (ALD) of six chlorinated hydrocarbons via the intratracheal route has been determined in rats and compared with published oral LD50 values. 2 The compounds tested in this study were dichloromethane, perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene, carbon tetrachloride, chloroform and ethylene dichloride. 3 A method of administering the materials intratracheally to unanaesthetized animals was developed. 4 The intratracheal ALD of the chlorinated hydrocarbons ranged from 3.1 to 17.5% of the oral LD 50 and death was peracute. 5 Aspiration of chlorinated hydrocarbons may present more of a hazard than oral toxicity and should be considered when rendering first aid or emergency medical treatment.

This publication has 6 references indexed in Scilit: