Stoddard solvent

Endpoint summary

Description of key information

Human Experience/Epidemiology

 

Chronic exposure to high concentrations of Stoddard solvent can produce health effects. Follicular dermatitis can develop rapidly on repeated immersion of the hands and forearms in Stoddard solvent and combined percutaneous and inhalation exposure of Stoddard solvent (at concentrations associated with nausea) has been held responsible for production of frank hepatic toxicity and jaundice. A number of fatalities due to aplastic anemia have been ascribed to occupational and consumer use of Stoddard-type solvents. Unquantified occupational exposure toStoddard solvent (83% paraffins, 17% aromatics) for 4-months produced nausea and vomiting in workers. One individual developed aplastic anemia; bone marrow depression was confirmed on sternal biopsy. This employee died several months later of septicemia. Although approximate boiling point ranges are variably reported, none of these isolated cases of anemia reported included chemical characterization of the particular solvents.

 A review of the epidemiological literature regarding exposure to white spirit with the CAS RN of 8052-41-3, has been conducted by the International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS) and Scientific Committee on Occupational Exposure Limit (SCOEL). The IPCS and SCOEL evaluations were also re-evaluated by the ECHA Committee for Risk Assessment (RAC). These evaluations include retrospective epidemiological studies involving painters with long-term exposure to white spirit. Confounding factors in these studies include co-exposure to other solvents and a lack of measured exposure data. Epidemiological studies reported an increased incidence of complaints of memory impairment, fatigue, impaired concentration, irritability, dizziness, headache, anxiety and apathy. Several studies that included neuropsychological tests demonstrated impairment in some of these tests. In some studies, life-time exposure to high concentrations of white spirit was correlated with an increase incidence of effect. Using a weight of evidence approach, the RAC concluded that chronic exposure to these white spirits cause adverse central nervous system (CNS) effects that can progress in severity. These CNS effects can include deficits in psychomotor, perception, memory parameters, and disturbances in mood.

 Health surveillance advice

 

Depending on the extent of exposure, regular medical check-upsare advisable. Emphasis should be placed on examination of thecentral nervous system function. However the skin should also be examined since white spirit is a defatting agent and can cause   dermatitis on prolonged exposure.

 Since white spirit may cause liver damage, a profile of liver  function should be obtained. Urinalysis should also be undertaken asthe kidneys may be affected by white spirit. A complete blood count  should be performed.